KUCHING: Demak Laut assemblyman Dr Hazland Abang Hipni has suggested that the annual Bako Fest be included in the Sarawak tourism calendar, which will benefit locals especially in Bako by directly involving them in tourism activities.
“The name Bako is already on the lips of tourists from within and outside the country, what with the beauty of Bako National Park and the surrounding islands such as Lakei Island and other beautiful natural attractions.
“Through Bako Fest, the organisation of various activities such as water sports and recreational events can attract more participation and will certainly bring lucrative returns to the community and state with regard to Sarawak’s tourism industry,” he said.
He said this when officiating at Bako Fest 2020 at the Bako Terminal recently.
He hoped that by including Bako Fest in the Sarawak tourism calendar, this would generate economic opportunities for the local community while increasing the number of incoming tourists to Bako – be they local or from overseas.
Bako Fest is an annual event aimed at promoting Bako as a fishing village which has attractions and tourism product destinations aside from Bako National Park and Lakei Island.
Dr Hazland said this year, Bako Fest 2020 was being held throughout December with various exciting events planned such as speedboat races, futsal, telematches, auto exhibitions, traditional cooking competitions, homestay courses and more.
He said that although the event would have to be held in the new norm due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the excitement of Bako Fest 2020 will certainly still be felt.
“The organisation of Bako Fest 2020 will be able to help residents here to some extent by generating income with the presence of visitors who come and purchase goods.
“This year’s event will be held every weekend and culminate at the end of December,” he said.
