Sarawak is poised to become the premier state for organizing big events in the coming years, as announced by Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, the State Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts.
It is important for the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) and Business Events Sarawak (BESarawak), to highlight their concerted efforts in attracting a range of important events to the state.
The teams have excelled in securing numerous conferences. A notable example from the previous year is the World Water Conference, which attracted participation from 80 countries and involved around 10,000 delegates. This event is a testament to Sarawak’s growing reputation as a hub for large-scale international conferences and gatherings.
In anticipation of the influx of events, the state government has announced plans to construct a new convention center adjacent to the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK). The proposed facility is expected to host an additional 5,000 delegates, raising Sarawak’s capacity to a remarkable 15,000 delegates in total. This expansion reflects the state’s ambition and confidence in becoming a leading destination for business events and conferences.
Furthermore, the STB Chief Executive Officer, Sharzede Salleh Shukor, has hinted at exciting changes for this year’s Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF). The festival, known for its celebration of world music diversity, is set to offer a fresh experience tailored to the millennial generation, focusing on themes of preservation and conservation. While details remain under wraps, the anticipation for the event’s launch is building.
The RWMF, an annual three-day event, is renowned for its vibrant mix of music workshops, cultural and craft displays, food stalls, and evening concerts. Held at the picturesque Sarawak Cultural Village, the festival not only showcases musical talents from around the globe but also emphasizes the rich cultural heritage of Sarawak.
This move to bolster Sarawak’s position as a premier destination for big events aligns with the state’s broader tourism and cultural strategy. By hosting such diverse and significant events, Sarawak not only enhances its global profile but also contributes substantially to the local economy and cultural landscape.
Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah announced BESarawak’s performance at the Board of Directors Appreciation Dinner in December 2023. Announced at the event, from 2024 to 2028, Sarawak anticipates welcoming over 42,000 delegates, contributing an estimated direct delegate expenditure of RM 188.3 million and generating a tax revenue of RM 20.8 million. This influx of events and delegates signifies a vibrant resurgence for Sarawak’s industry post-pandemic, aligning with the region’s strategic post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030.
The expansion of facilities and the innovative approach to event organization reflect a strategic vision that positions Sarawak at the forefront of the global events industry. With its unique blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and now, state-of-the-art facilities, Sarawak is set to become a beacon for event organizers and attendees worldwide.
