Sarawak Media Plays Vital Role In Boosting West Kalimantan Tourism

From Rozlin Rusharmeen Rosmin

PONTIANAK (Indonesia), Nov 14 (Bernama) -- The media community from Sarawak is playing a pivotal role in promoting the tourism sector in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, through bilateral Malaysia-Indonesia promotional initiatives, creating broader opportunities for cross-border tourism development.

West Kalimantan Provincial secretary Harisson said the presence of the Sarawak media delegation on a familiarisation trip reflected a shared commitment to invigorating the tourism industry between the two regions, particularly following the resumption of direct Kuching-Pontianak flights by AirAsia.

“We greatly appreciate the role of the Sarawak media community, which acts as a bridge in introducing West Kalimantan’s cuisine, culture, and attractions to our friends in Sarawak.

“The more information that is shared, the greater the opportunity to attract tourists,” he told reporters after receiving a courtesy call from the Sarawak media delegation here today.

He added that promotional efforts by media practitioners, including influencers and digital content creators from Sarawak, have the potential to broaden Malaysians’ access to information on the unique culture, heritage, and tourism products in Pontianak and Singkawang.

A total of 14 media practitioners from Sarawak are in West Kalimantan for a five-day programme starting today, organised by the Consulate General of Indonesia in Kuching in collaboration with AirAsia. They include journalists, photographers, influencers, and digital content creators.

Meanwhile, head of the Youth, Sports, and Tourism Office of West Kalimantan, Windy Prihastari, said the visit is expected to strengthen bilateral understanding in tourism.

She noted that it also opens new opportunities for more strategic cooperation through platforms such as the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) and the Indonesia-Malaysia Socio-Economic (SOSEK MALINDO) Working Committee.

“Recognising the importance of digital promotion and online trends, we are collaborating with all stakeholders in West Kalimantan to jointly promote tourism digitally and create a platform called the Electronic Tourist Information Centre,” she said.

According to her, the use of digital platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube by Sarawak media practitioners and content creators can expand the reach of West Kalimantan’s tourism promotion, particularly to younger Malaysians.

During the programme, the Sarawak media delegation is scheduled to visit several popular tourist sites in Pontianak, including the Equator Monument, traditional Dayak and Malay houses, and sample local delicacies.

In Singkawang, the delegation will explore a variety of cultural attractions, including Rumah Warisan Tjhia, Samudra Beach, and ethnic settlements reflecting the cultural diversity of the Malay, Dayak, and Chinese communities in the city.

-- BERNAMA