KUCHING: The development of heritage trails in Sarawak not only reinforces historical and cultural preservation efforts, but also holds potential to generate economic opportunities for local communities through various tourism activities based on local identity and uniqueness.

Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Datuk Snowdan Lawan said that active community involvement in developing heritage trails creates opportunities for residents to contribute knowledge, oral histories, and experiences unique to their respective areas.

According to him, this approach enables communities to leverage economic opportunities through homestay services, handicraft production, local food provision, community tour guiding services, and cultural event organization.

“Through this approach, heritage preservation not only strengthens community identity, but also has the potential to contribute to local socioeconomic development,” he said.

He said this in response to a question from Machan Assemblyman Allan Siden Gramong during the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting here on Wednesday.

Elaborating further, he highlighted that among the initiatives implemented is the Betong Heritage Trail, which covers the areas of Betong, Saratok, Pusa, and Kabong.

The development of the heritage trail involved engagement sessions, site visits, and oral history sharing with local communities and stakeholders to identify locations possessing historical and cultural significance.

Meanwhile, the Miri Heritage Trail launched in 2025 highlights the history of the petroleum industry, World War II heritage, local legends and stories, as well as the community developments that shaped the identity of the city.

In Kuching, the Old Kuching Smart Heritage (OKSHE) initiative encompasses four primary components: Kampung Heritage, Historical Business Heritage, Riverfront Heritage, and Historical Monuments Heritage.

The initiative is also supported by a microsite that facilitates easy access for the public and tourists to information regarding the history and heritage of Old Kuching.

In addition to heritage trail developments, documentation efforts for Sarawak’s history and culture are further reinforced through the publication of books such as The Revival of Songket & Keringkam Sarawak: Honouring Datuk Amar Juma’ani, Kampung Warisan Bandar Raya Kuching, and Sejarah Kanowit. — UKASnews

Prepared by: Lonney Jinab
Photos: Hazrin Sunaini
Translator: Ryan Lim