KUCHING: A new Borneo River Cruise service from Sibu to Kapit will begin operating next year.
State Deputy Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Sebastian Ting told the Sarawak Legislative Assembly on Tuesday (Oct 13) that the cruise is a private sector effort. It would offer multi-day journeys along the Rajang River.
"It will promote Baleh's cultural heritage, particularly the longhouse lifestyle, traditional cuisines, local crafts and its nature and adventure along the route," he told Nicholas Kudi Jantai (GPS-Baleh) during question time.
Ting said the Sarawak Tourism Board will position the Baleh-Kapit Raft Safari and Bukit Mabong Expedition, both Baleh's flagship events, as add-on experiences for cruise passengers.
The board will also work with tour operators to create extension packages from Kapit to Baleh, he said.
Ting added that his ministry and the federal Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry will continue to promote local communities' participation in the Malaysia homestay experience programme and build skills in hospitality, guiding and product packaging.
He said it would help prepare the communities to receive the cruise visitors, Ting said, adding that he welcomed Nicholas' assistance in identifying longhouses interested in taking part.
