KUCHING: Sarawak is optimistic about achieving its target of five million visitors this year after recording 3.52 million arrivals from January to September 2026, supported by an anticipated surge in visitor numbers during the final quarter of the year.

Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the increase in tourist arrivals throughout October to December is expected to provide positive momentum toward reaching the annual target.

“I see October, November, and December recording very high arrival numbers. I hope we will be able to reach five million visitors,” he said.

He said this during a press conference following his ministerial winding-up speech in conjunction with the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) Sitting here on Tuesday.

However, he acknowledged that ongoing international conflicts as well as rising airfares and fuel costs remain factors that could influence tourist movements.

According to him, Sarawak recorded 4.97 million visitors in 2025, an increase compared to 4.83 million in 2024, demonstrating the state tourism sector's positive trajectory.

He explained that the Sarawak Government remains focused on securing the five million visitor milestone first before considering higher targets in the coming year.

In a related development, Sarawak's tourism sector logged impressive financial growth, recording RM9 billion in tourism receipts between January and September 2026, averaging RM1 billion per month.

He clarified that this achievement reflects the tourism sector's substantial contribution to Sarawak's economy, even as overall visitor arrival numbers approach the full-year target. — UKASnews

Prepared by: Nur Marisa
Photos: Geoge S.Embie
Translator: Ryan Lim