Sunday, July 11, 2010

Penan knowledge can be touristic asset for Sarawak

MIRI: Natives in Sarawak, particularly Penans, could play an important role in accelerating the development of the state’s tourism industry with their vast knowledge of the environment, nature and surrounding forests.

Deputy Tourism Minister Datuk Dr James Dawos Mamit revealed that seven Penans had been recruited as tourist guides in Mulu.

“The Penans are not only very knowledgeable on forests but also proficient in English and really impressed the tourists. Besides, their resettlement at Batu Bungan near Mulu National Park is an important tourist attraction,” he said.

Dawos told reporters this yesterday after officiating at the Miri Bidayuh Food and Cultural Festival 2010 at Kampong Bidayuh (Ulu Sungai Dalam), Taman Tunku. It was organised by Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) Miri branch.

Among those present were DBNA chairman Captain Bernard Idit and Ketua Kampong Jimmy Nyahen.

Dawos said the negative perception of Penans should be discarded once and for all as Penans were reported internationally, so could be used to promote the local tourism products to foreigners.

“We can use the service of Penans to guide foreign tourists enthusiastic in exploring the rich biodiversity of our forests, particularly in Sarawak.

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