贵宾们在圣诞市集前合影。左2起为市长俞小珊的代表余忠明市议员、拿督丹尼斯敖伉俪,右3为砂拉越旅游局首席执行员莎孜德。
贵宾们在圣诞市集前合影。左2起为市长俞小珊的代表余忠明市议员、拿督丹尼斯敖伉俪,右3为砂拉越旅游局首席执行员莎孜德。

Dennis Ngau: The Friendliness and Inclusiveness of the People are Sarawak’s Greatest Tourism Appeal

Published at Dec 21, 2025 09:54 am
(Miri, 21st) — Dato Dennis Ngau, Chairman of the Sarawak Tourism Board, pointed out that the tourism industry does not rely only on beautiful natural scenery and diverse cultures, but more importantly on “people”—the friendliness, sincerity, and inclusiveness of the people of Sarawak are the key factors that attract tourists to return again and again.

In his speech at the opening ceremony of the Christmas Market held at the Miri Sarawak Tourism Board Visitor Information Center on the evening of the 19th, he stated that since its establishment in the 1980s, the Sarawak Tourism Board has shouldered the mission of promoting Sarawak to the world, and has long been actively conducting promotions in international markets to attract global tourists to experience Sarawak’s unique charm.

Dennis Ngau noted that tourism is one of the most important economic pillars of the country and the state. The Sarawak Tourism Board not only actively promotes overseas, but also sets up visitor information centers within the state, including in Kuching, Miri, and other places, providing visitors with comprehensive and accurate tourism information.

He said with satisfaction that the Miri Visitor Information Center is operating well, attracting a large number of visitors for inquiries and event participation, and that holding the market in conjunction with the Christmas season has further activated the space, making it not only an information center, but also a platform for community and visitor engagement.

He also expressed gratitude to the CEO of the Sarawak Tourism Board, board members, and all staff for their hard work, and called on the public to continue praying for Sarawak and the nation, to cherish the current freedom, peace, and religious tolerance, so that people of all races can celebrate festivals together in a harmonious environment.

Dennis Ngau revealed that Sarawak set a goal of attracting at least five million visitors this year, and that this goal has been successfully achieved. These visitor numbers have brought considerable economic benefits to the state, further stimulating the development of hotels, catering, transportation, and related industries.

He stressed that tourists are not limited to international visitors; intra-state and domestic tourism are equally important, and as long as someone stays in hotels or dines out, it is part of the tourism economy.

"No matter how beautiful the attractions, such as Mulu National Park or Niah Caves, if the people are not friendly or honest, tourists will only come once." He stated bluntly that a good tourism experience depends on people's attitudes, and any negative behavior may damage Sarawak's image.

He pointed out that in recent years, the Sarawak Tourism Board has won numerous domestic and international awards, which are not purchased but strictly assessed by professional judges, proving that Sarawak’s tourism promotion direction is correct and its results are remarkable.

Dennis Ngau also emphasized that Sarawak is home to about 37 different ethnic groups, and the harmonious coexistence of its people is Sarawak’s most precious and attractive tourism asset. Many overseas tourists, after visiting Sarawak, say their deepest impression is the amiability of the people here and the “feeling of coming home.”

He stated that the Miri Visitor Information Center is not only a place for tourist inquiries, but will also continue to hold markets, handicraft fairs, and food events, welcoming participation from all sectors to jointly promote the sustainable development of Sarawak’s tourism industry.

"Sarawak is a blessed land. Let us continue to move forward hand-in-hand, and through tourism, let Sarawak stride toward a better future."
  
 

Author

Liew Li Mui


相关报道