Showcasing essence of Sarawak | The Star

TRADITIONAL prints, beads, bags and food delights were showcased at the “Sarawak Gateway to Borneo Fair” in Penang.

Lecturer Nordibradini Selamat, 48, was seen learning about the various flavours of Sarawak’s kek lapis before making her purchase.

“I happened to chance upon the fair and decided to check it out. I have eaten this cake years ago and remember it being tasty. I’m glad to be able to buy some,” she said at Queensbay Mall where the fair was held.

Nordibradini said fairs like this gave people exposure to other local cultures.

“Not everyone has been to Sarawak, so this is a good way to introduce them to things that are specific to the state,” she said.

Organised by the Sarawak government, the fair – with 16 booths including one selling bags and baskets made by indigenous Penan weavers – was a hit with Penang residents.

Other booths featured batik making and beaded jewellery along with displays by Sarawak Forestry Corporation, tour agencies and hotels.

The four-day fair, aimed at boosting tourism in Sarawak, offered visitors an immersive dive to explore the vibrant culture, arts and tourism products of Borneo.

A traditional performance at the launch of the Sarawak Gateway to Borneo Fair in Penang.

Multiple booths offered travel packages to Sarawak for eco- tourism, cultural immersion and adventure.

Guest-of-honour Sarawak Tourism Board chairman Datuk Dennis Ngau said its target was to have four million tourists visiting Sarawak this year.

“We are almost there and will probably surpass the target by the end of the year.

“We are not just showcasing a destination; we are inviting you to experience the heart and soul of a land like no other.

“It is a place where nature and culture exist in perfect harmony.

“The fair offers insight into the culture with live performances featuring the sape, enchanting music of nose flute and dance performances from Sarawak’s indigenous communities.

“Sarawak comprises 34 ethnic groups with their own unique traditions, lifestyles, music and food,” he added.

Ngau said festivals were held throughout the year.

“We invite everyone to come over and experience Sarawak, as we believe the domestic market is equally important when it comes to tourism,” he said.

He was confident the campaign would entice Penangites to visit Sarawak.