KUCHING: Telaga Air has been identified as a potential venue for large-scale regatta events, further strengthening its position as a water-sports tourism destination in Sarawak.

The proposal has received support from the Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) due to the unique race formats featured in the area.

Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, Kuching North City Commission and Islamic Affairs), Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, said the initiative has been under discussion for about two years as a measure to expand the state’s tourism offerings.

According to him, one of the main attractions is the ‘endurance regatta,’ which was introduced for the first time during the Telaga Air Festival.

“The event features boats with 30 paddlers rowing continuously over a distance of five kilometres.

“The straight, unobstructed stretch of the Telaga Air river allows the race to be conducted in a single lane, making it a unique and exciting competition,” he said when met by the media on Wednesday.

He explained that the race format, which lasts around 10 to 11 minutes, has also drawn the ministry’s attention as a potential sports tourism product to be developed further.

He added that the proposal also includes holding the Telaga Air regatta on alternate years with the Telaga Air Festival to enrich the state’s tourism calendar.

The Pantai Damai Assemblyman also said the event is not intended to replace the Sarawak Regatta, which remains at the Sarawak River, but rather to complement the various existing regatta events in the state.

He said the initiative is expected to boost Telaga Air’s appeal as a tourist destination while also stimulating the local community’s economic growth. -UKASnews

Prepared by: Ezzah Syafiqah
Photo: Shahril Haqim
Translator: Suhaila AW