KUCHING: The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry is confident that the ‘Sia Sitok Sarawak’ (Here and There in Sarawak) intra-state tourism campaign will benefit the economy and tourism industry players affected by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said as the country had not opened its borders yet, the local tourism industry had to start somewhere in order to recover.
“With the pandemic steadily under control in Malaysia, we are now ready to do what it takes to reboot tourism in Sarawak, with a focus on domestic tourism.
“In this regard, I am really happy to announce the launch of our very own ‘Sia Sitok’ campaign that has been delicately planned by Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) with Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF) to include various packages at substantial discount of up to 50 per cent to help revive and boost local travel.”
He was speaking during the launch of the campaign at Imperial Hotel here on Monday (Aug 17).
He said the state government heavily subsidised the packages offered purely just for Sarawakians, and urged them to take the opportunity to support the local tourism industry.
“In fact, since the implement of the recovery movement control order (RMCO) in June, we are beginning to see an increase in number of arrivals to the state as more Malaysians opt for holidays within the country.
“And as the inter-zones travel has already lifted, I believe this is the most suitable time for you and family to plan for short trips around Sarawak, visiting places that you never explored before and create memories and leaving only footprints during the trip.”
The campaign offers 30 exciting packages, attractions, tours and activities in Kuching, Sibu, Mukah, Bintulu, Miri and Mulu which includes day trips and non-overnight tours as well as full board multiple day trips with accommodation and meals.
“For a start, the campaign will first be opened to Sarawak Covid-19 front-line warriors and relief workers such as medical staff, the police, army, maritime, Sarawak Disaster Management Committee, Rela, and others, who truly deserve this priority treatment in appreciation for their hard work, putting their lives on the line,” said Abdul Karim.
These offerings would then be extended to all Sarawakians and non-Sarawakians residing in the state but with work permit.
“The ‘Sia Sitok’ campaign starts from July 15 till Oct 15, and the travelling period is from now till Nov 30, 2020. I think it is only fair since we only got one more month extra, I will extend it right up to December 2020.
“Hopefully there will be less rain and the weather’s good in December. It will be a good way to also celebrate the winning of the election,” he added.
He said STB would also be initiating the Interstate Package Sarawak by mid September, where it would include packages to encourage domestic travel from Peninsular Malaysia.
“But of course, the interstate package will not be as good as the ‘Sia Sitok’ package. We will give priority to Sarawakians as they will be getting 50 per cent discount.”
He assured that the places were safe to be visited as all stringent standard operating procedure (SOP) had been put in place at the attractions and destinations.
“We will ensure the suppliers of this campaign adhere to the latest SOP or action will be taken by my ministry and STB against those who fail to comply.”
For further information, visit https://sarawak.travel/explore-all while for bookings, visit https://siasitoksarawak.rezgo.com/
