(Singapore, July 21, 2024) The two Malaysia States of Sabah and Sarawak, that are neighbours on the island of Borneo, teamed up to hold the inaugural Borneo Fest 2024 at Marina Square in Singapore from July 19 – 21, 2024. The two states wanted to bring greater awareness to the Lion City of what they offer in terms of trade and tourism opportunities.
The attending dignitaries
The morning event began with an opening dance and musical performance by Sarawak’s Demani Kuwai. Playing the musical instruments native to Borneo they brought the colour and creativity of just one of the 34 ethnic groups from Malaysia’s largest state.
Datuk Snowdan Anak Donald Lawan
Datuk Snowdan Anak Donald Lawan the State Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts of Sarawak in charge of Creative Industry and Performing Arts spoke to the audience about the attractions of Sarawak and why people should visit it. “Sarawak is blessed with great natural beauty in its rainforest, in the striking wildlife that is indigenous to it, the rivers and beaches that provide recreational opportunities, the diverse local culture and the excellence of its cuisine. You must try Sarawak Laksa,” he urged those who have not yet visited the state. “The food is very good there. Try our black pepper and the many tropical fruit that are abundant there.”
Kumpulan Budayawan
His speech was followed by a breathtaking and energetic performance by Kumpulan Budayawan of Sabah who were dressed in traditional costume. Their dance, stepping between long polls that were rapidly being clapped together, thrilled the crowd as they were doing it blind folded!
YB Datuk Christina Liew Chin Jin, Minister of Tourism Culture and Environment of Sabah spoke enthusiastically about her home state. She urged the guests to visit Sabah and Sarawak. “People are often surprised at how nice the people are there. Once you go there, you will want to stay permanently. It can become your Second Home.
YB Datuk Christina Liew Chin Jin, Minister of Tourism Culture and Environment of Sabah
“We are here this weekend,” she continued, “to create awareness among Singaporeans who have never been to Sabah and Sarawak. We want them to know why they will enjoy being there and never want to leave. We are here to promote Sabah by showcasing what we have. There are 35 ethnic groups and over 200 sub-ethnic groups, each with their own unique language, culture and beliefs. I encourage Singaporeans to visit. You will see wild animals and beautiful nature. There is much to enjoy. If you go to Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre you will see orangutans within 50 feet of you. It is a thrilling experience.”
The Minister praised Ms Wendy Clare, CEO of Sabah Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STTOS) and Rohzana Iskandar for their work in the Singapore office. “They are two excellent ladies who are working hard to promote Sabah.
“Come and visit our Rainforest Discovery Centre,” Datuk Liew continued. Come and visit our forests – they are much more than you might imagine. And we have much more than orangutans, which Sabah is very well known for. There is the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) a sun bear rescue and rehabilitation facility in Sabah. The sun bear is the smallest bear in the world and it needs our help and protection.” She noted that Mount Kinabalu was Malaysia's first World Heritage Site. “We have so many things to offer for tourists. We get the most beautiful sunsets in the world. There is Eco Adventures and Nature based Tourism. We have the most beautiful diving in the world. Or you can go mountain climbing, trekking golfing and canoeing. Visit our new elephant sanctuary.
Anne Antah Chanteek Borneo Creations
“Borneo Fest is a most apt and timely event to promote Sabah as a premier tourist destination by showcasing what we have to offer and thus encourage Singaporeans to visit our state,” the Minister said. There were 12 booths displaying products such as pepper and coffee and laksa, artistic and tourism companies showing products they offer that could help you explore these two amazing states.
Other VIPs and guests included High Commissioner of Malaysia to Singapore H.E. Dato Dr. Azfar Mohamad Mustafar. Tan Sri Datuk Amar Haji Mohamad Morshidi bin Abdul Ghani Chairman of Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STATOS). Board Members of Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STAT0S). Board Members of Sabah Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STTOS). Mr Chew Chang Guan – CEO of Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STATOS) and Ms Wendy Clare – CEO of Sabah Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (STTOS).
Chanteek Borneo Creations
www.chanteekborneo.shop
Borneo Happy Farm
www.borneohappyfarm.com
Inspirasi Borneo
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