KUCHING: The opening of the Brooke Dockyard Industrial Heritage Museum marks a strategic step in strengthening the preservation of Sarawak's industrial heritage and maritime history, thus boosting the high-impact tourism sector in the state.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg stressed that the museum is not just an exhibition space, but an important platform in elevating the narrative of engineering, trade and water transport systems that were once the foundation of Sarawak's development.
According to him, the existence of the dockyard and replicas of historic vessels such as the Zahora reflect the capabilities of steam engine-powered technology that played a major role in the state's administration and connections before the modern era.
"History recorded that ships like the Zahora were not just transportation, but also served as symbols of administration and the main connection to interior regions, including being used in important missions such as the Cobbold Commission survey,” he said during his speech at the event on Monday.
He explained that the development of the transport system from the use of ships to helicopters reflects the evolution of development and connectivity needs in Sarawak.
Meanwhile, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari revealed plans for the development of a 48-kilometre riverside project that will connect the Brooke Dockyard area with the Satok Bridge, thus creating an integrated tourism corridor based on heritage and culture.
He said that the first phase of the project is expected to begin next year with an allocation of around RM160 million, followed by the second phase worth RM400 million, which will feature unique architectural designs including elevated walkways to safeguard the well-being of the local community.
“This development will provide a different experience for tourists, in addition to connecting elements of history, culture and community life on both banks of the river,” he said.
Elaborating further, he said Sarawak is establishing itself on the international stage with several global recognitions including the World Heritage sites of Gunung Mulu National Park and Niah National Park, in addition to the recognition of Kuching as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
The Sarawak Premier added that efforts to obtain geopark recognition by UNESCO for the Kuching Delta area will open up a new element in strengthening Sarawak’s position as a world-class tourism destination.
At the same time, he stressed that the increased accessibility through the AirBorneo regional flight initiative will serve as an important catalyst in bringing more tourists to the state.
He also expressed his appreciation to the Ministry for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts and the Sarawak Museum Department for their continuous efforts in realising the project.
In concluding, he expressed confidence that this museum will be a catalyst for the growth of the tourism industry, thus providing economic spillover to the hospitality, food and services sectors in Sarawak.
Also present were Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, Sarawak Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, Sarawak Minister for Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Economic Planning and Development) Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel, Deputy Ministers and other guests of honour. -UKASnews
