Sarawak’s Gateway to Borneo Fair unveils unique experiences

Sarawak Tourism Board’s “Gateway to Borneo” campaign recently captured the attention of travel enthusiasts at the Sarawak Gateway to Borneo Fair, held at Queensbay Mall, Penang, from 10 to 13 October.

The campaign, which highlights Sarawak as the gateway to Borneo’s rich cultural and natural wonders, brought together exhibitors showcasing local crafts, foods, and travel packages, all aimed at enticing more visitors to explore the region.

Showcasing Sarawak’s rich heritage

The “Gateway to Borneo” fair offered visitors an authentic taste of Sarawak through various exhibits and live demonstrations.

At the heart of the event was a vibrant opening ceremony, officiated by Dato Dennis Ngau, Chairman of the Sarawak Tourism Board, on behalf of the Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Sarawak, Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.

He emphasised how the campaign is not only about tourism but also about connecting communities and bridging cultures.

Traditional crafts such as Batik Sarawak and basket weaving captivated onlookers, while stalls selling Kek Lapis Sarawak and the popular Tuak Borneo offered a flavourful experience.

Travel packages, promoted by Penang-based operators, encouraged visitors to explore Sarawak’s unique attractions.

A highlight of the fair was the daily live performances, showcasing indigenous Sarawakian music and dance.

The hypnotic sounds of the Sape and Nose Flute filled the air, accompanied by dancers from the Iban, Bidayuh, Orang Ulu, and Melanau communities.

The Sarawakian band Sada Borneo, who gained fame on Asia’s Got Talent, delivered a special performance, further adding to the event’s cultural appeal.

Boosting Borneo tourism

The Sarawak Gateway to Borneo Fair is part of a broader strategy to boost domestic tourism and reach Sarawak’s ambitious target of attracting 2 million domestic visitors in 2024, contributing to a projected 4 million visitors overall.

Reflecting on the event’s success, Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said, “Sarawak is a place of discovery—where ancient traditions meet modern life, offering rich experiences for travellers seeking authentic, meaningful connections.”

By August, Sarawak had already welcomed 3.3 million visitors, setting the stage for an impressive year in tourism.

The fair not only promoted Sarawak as a travel destination but also fostered collaboration between Sarawak-based businesses and Penang tour operators.

The Gateway to Borneo Fair is more than just a marketing campaign; it’s an invitation to explore the rich diversity that Sarawak has to offer.

By highlighting cultural traditions and fostering connections between communities, the event reminds us that travel is not just about seeing new places—it’s about experiencing and understanding different cultures.

As the campaign continues to grow, it’s clear that the “Gateway to Borneo” offers more than just a travel opportunity—it opens the door to a wealth of cultural heritage and unforgettable experiences.

With Sarawak setting ambitious goals for tourism, there has never been a better time to discover this unique gateway to Borneo.

For more information on Sarawak and its offerings, visit: Sarawak Tourism Board.