KUCHING: Visitors, including campers, should take the necessary precautions while on camping trips, especially during the monsoon season.
Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau said those visiting eco-tourism spots, particularly for camping in the rural areas, need to be extra careful before embarking on such trips.
“We would also like to advise those who wish to go camping near the creeks to be cautious as this involves mother nature, and at times we never expect anything bad to happen.
“So, what (campsite tragedy) has happened before this, we take it as a lesson and be on high alert,” he told reporters after the prize-giving ceremony for Sarawak Tourism Board’s (STB) second edition photography and videography competition at Plaza Merdeka Shopping Mall here, today (Dec 21).
The STB chairman also reminded eco-tourism players to take precautionary measures and look after visitors’ safety.
“Most important, is not to take things for granted thinking nothing will pose danger. We have to take safety measures seriously,” he said.
So far there is no instruction from the government on the temporary closure of eco-tourism spots, but he believed that the tourism operators are putting safety measures in place.
“I also think that from time to time, the relevant authority will monitor the situation, particularly at the eco-tourism spots,” he said.
Meanwhile, STB chief executive officer (CEO) Sharzede Salleh Askor said as tourism industry players, they must take responsibility for the weather conditions which can be very unpredictable due to climate change.
“We must always look at the weather forecast and take concern on this, and not just run it (eco-tourism spots) for the sake of business only.
“With the uncertain weather conditions, we need to be doubly cautious. Plus, the responsibility of the industry players is also very important,” she said.
