Sarawak counter receives many enquiries at travel fair
KUCHING: The Sarawak counter at the World Travel Market ( WTM) – Europe’s most prestigious travel fair – in London received many enquiries from international business partners eager to learn about the destination and seeking travel business opportunities in the state.
During the three- day fair which ended yesterday, Sarawak Tourism Board ( STB) shared on the destination and product experiences offered as well as gave updates on the development of tourism-related opportunities available in the state.
Paradesa Borneo director JC Chua was overwhelmed by business propositions from agents in Europe and the United States interested in adventure and cycling tours.
“We are looking at least five agents and tour operators who have expressed interest in our product range,” he said.
He said the first group of 30 cyclists from the United Kingdom will arrive in Kuching in September next year, and another group of 30 is still deciding on a date.
Chua is also expecting familiarisation trips from other cycling companies from the United States and United Kingdom this year.
“There are another five new leads that we will be following up from this outing,” said the firsttimer to WTM.
He is optimistic of expanding his business next year as there is a growing demand for adventure and cycling tours – now considered on trend in many developed countries.
STB also had the opportunity to meet up with the UK’s top producing operators into Sarawak and presented plaques to acknowledge their contribution towards tourism promotion.
Recipients included Audley Travel product manager James Pook and Emerald Travel chief executive officer Mariah HamidLim.
Both companies are among the United Kingdom’s top 10 agents with excellent sales this year.
We are looking at least five agents and tour operators who have expressed interest in our product range. JC Chua, Paradesa Borneo director