Sarawak Tourism Board and Royal Brunei Airlines Partner to Elevate Sarawak’s Tourism Reach in Taiwan

Kuching, Sarawak – August 29, 2024 – The Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) is pleased to
announce the successful conclusion of its business networking seminars held on 27 August
2024 in Taichung and today in Taipei, Taiwan. These events, part of the “Gateway to
Borneo” campaign, were designed to promote Sarawak, Malaysia, as a premier travel
destination among Taiwanese travel industry professionals.

With the participation of three tour operators and three hotel operators from Sarawak, the
seminars highlighted the region’s unique offerings and fostered stronger relationships
between Sarawak and Taiwan’s travel industries. The seminar underscored the crucial role
of Taiwanese tour operators in promoting Sarawak. As of July 2024, Taiwan recorded a
remarkable 24% increase in visitor arrivals to Sarawak compared to the same period last
year, placing Taiwan among the top 10 countries for visitor arrivals.

The seminar attracted distinguished guests, esteemed partners, and influential figures from
Taiwan’s travel industry, providing a unique platform to showcase Sarawak’s rich culture,
thrilling adventures, stunning natural beauty, delectable cuisine, and vibrant festivals. STB
aims to inspire more Taiwanese travelers to explore the enchanting offerings of Sarawak.
Known for their preference for national parks, wildlife tours, cultural and heritage
experiences, and authentic local food, Taiwanese travelers will find Sarawak an ideal
destination. With its rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and culinary diversity, Sarawak
promises a memorable and enriching travel experience.

Sarawak is the first state in Malaysia to boast two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Gunung
Mulu National Park, renowned for its breathtaking limestone formations, and Niah National
Park, which holds significant archaeological treasures. Furthermore, Kuching, the capital of
Sarawak, is recognized as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, celebrating its diverse
culinary heritage, shaped by over 34 ethnic groups. The city is also honored as a World
Craft City by the World Craft Council, reflecting its rich tradition of craftsmanship.
Further enhancing Sarawak’s appeal is the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF), a
cultural gem that drew 26,000 attendees in 2024—a 35% increase from the previous year.
This annual event in Kuching celebrates world music, culture, and local flavors, all set
against the stunning backdrop of Mount Santubong, making Sarawak a must-visit
destination.

Catering to discerning travelers, the region also provides a range of quality accommodations
with options for premium lodging. STB has partnered strategically with Royal Brunei Airlines
to complement this, ensuring seamless connectivity between Taiwan and Sarawak.
With Royal Brunei Airlines operating four times weekly from Bandar Seri Begawan to
Kuching, three times weekly from Taipei to Bandar Seri Begawan, and two times weekly
directly from Taipei through Bandar Seri Begawan to Kuching, travel is made convenient
and accessible. This robust flight schedule enhances the overall experience, promoting the
appeal of dual tourism destinations.

To further bolster tourism initiatives, the Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) introduced the
Strategic Partnership Collaboration Fund, designed to empower tour operators by providing
vital resources and support. This fund is instrumental in amplifying the promotion of Sarawak
through various avenues, such as facilitating participation in prestigious travel fairs, creating
compelling marketing campaigns, and developing unique cultural tourism experiences.
Eligible applicants include those licensed by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture
Malaysia (MOTAC) or recognized by relevant tourism associations. By leveraging this fund,
tour operators can significantly broaden their reach, attract a wider audience, and drive
substantial business growth.

“We are delighted with the overwhelming response from our esteemed partners in Taiwan.
This seminar has strengthened our relationships and highlighted Sarawak’s immense
potential as a premier travel destination,” said Dylan Redas Noel, STB’s Marketing Director
for North Asia & New Market.
“The success of the Rainforest World Music Festival and the growing visitor numbers from
Taiwan reflect Sarawak’s unique appeal. We look forward to welcoming more Taiwanese
travelers to our beautiful state.”