BY ANNABELL NAJA TOMMY and FASIHA KHUSHIRI
BOTH the Sarawak and federal governments are committed to finding new tourism products to attract more tourist to the state.
One of Sarawak’s potential tourism products is offering a longhouse experience to tourists.
Tourism, Creative Industries, and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah highlighted the significance of preserving the authentic charm of traditional longhouses in Sarawak, emphasising that excessive modernisation might erode their unique character.
He advocated for upgrading these traditional structures while maintaining their original essence, contributing to the state’s distinct identity.
However, Abdul Karim stressed that the decision to undertake such changes cannot be imposed, given that longhouses are privately owned.
“The power to make these decisions rests with the Tuai Rumah (head of the longhouse) and the residing community. Their perspectives and preferences are crucial factors that need to be considered.
“The Ministry believes that the potential influx of tourists into these traditional longhouses would have a transformative impact on the local economy. The boost in tourism is expected to not only benefit individual homeowners but the entire community. This economic boost can be derived from selling traditional crafts, participating in cultural performances, and engaging in other related activities,” he commented when asked by New Sarawak Tribune.
To realise this vision, he said the Ministry is actively promoting and encouraging the development of traditional longhouses as cultural and eco-tourism hubs.
“Additionally, the Ministry is in the process of crafting travel packages that will take tourists to the heart of Sarawak’s interior regions, particularly the areas between Sibu and Kapit.
“This initiative seeks to facilitate exploration of the deeper parts of the state, offering tourists a unique and immersive experience,” he added.
Federal Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, previously expressed a similar sentiment during his visit to the Rumah Lidam longhouse in Sibu.
He emphasised the importance of upgrading these longhouses to provide top-quality accommodation and unforgettable experiences to visitors.
Tiong stressed the need to ensure cleanliness, safety, and optimal facilities for tourists.
“In addition to comfortable lodging, by organising cultural dance performances, cooking classes, and traditional ceremonies within the longhouses. This approach would offer tourists an opportunity to immerse themselves in the local community’s lifestyle and traditions,” he said.
As Malaysia and the rest of the world continue to grapple with the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, the Ministry recognises the need to revitalise the tourism industry.
Abdul Karim and Tiong both share the goal of attracting more tourists to Malaysia and fostering economic growth.
Previously, former Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri highlighted the historical significance of Sarawak, particularly Santubong, which boasts archaeological sites and rich narratives for Muslim tourists
The Ministry aims to facilitate community-based tourism in rural areas through initiatives like the Malaysian Homestay Experience Programme, making it easier for homestay operators to register.
To further diversify and expand the tourism industry, the Ministry is identifying traditional longhouses in Sarawak that can be developed as Muslim-friendly homestays.
These initiatives underscore the Ministry’s commitment to preserving culture, enhancing economic prosperity, and providing unique and enriching experiences for tourists from around the world.
In a heartwarming display of community vision and collaboration, residents of a quaint village are contemplating the conversion of their traditional longhouse into a captivating homestay experience.
With diverse perspectives converging on the matter, it’s evident that this endeavour holds the promise of fostering cultural exchange, preserving heritage, and bolstering the local economy.
Jonathan Aho, a 49-year-old general worker, highlights the potential of this transformation to infuse the area with unique cultural encounters.
“I envision the homestay concept as a source of community pride that could attract visitors seeking authentic experiences,” he said.
He underlines the importance of utilising government support to establish essential amenities that would enable a successful venture.As for Royston Sungong, a 29-year-old marketing executive, the prospect of repurposing the longhouse as a homestay aligns perfectly with showcasing the region’s rich heritage.
“I believe, the dual role of the homestay — both as a tourist attraction and a preserver of cultural identity, “said Royston.He stresses the significance of governmental financial backing to enhance infrastructure, ensuring an enticing and memorable homestay experience for tourists.
Entrepreneur Senisah Sezali, 29, sees eye to eye with Izaidah and Jonathan.
“I believes the transformation would stimulate economic growth while providing a platform for meaningful cultural exchange,” she said.Senisah views this move as a step toward sustainable tourism, dovetailing tradition with modern practices for the holistic development of the region.
She advocates for government aid, not only in terms of finances but also in terms of guidance and training for effective homestay management.
Echoing the sentiments of her fellow villagers, Noor Izaidah Ismail,32, a private worker ,expresses unwavering support for the conversion initiative.
“The transition from village house to homestay offers a remarkable opportunity to uphold traditions while catering to the demands of contemporary tourism, “she said.
She highlights the need for government assistance not just in enhancing physical infrastructure, but also in enhancing safety measures and maintaining the authenticity of cultural experiences.
The collective stance of these individuals exemplifies a community that recognises the potential of its heritage to contribute to a flourishing local economy.
Their unanimous call for governmental aid to materialise this vision underlines the importance of public-private partnership for sustainable growth.
If successfully implemented, this transformation could serve as a model for other communities seeking to bridge the gap between tradition and modernity while harnessing the power of tourism for their advancement.
