Bau’s natural assets, heritage and culture lay groundwork for 20-year growth, says Premier

May 15, 2025 @ 16:32

Abang Johari (fourth left) looks on as Henry (third left) presents a mock key as a symbolic gesture for a shoplot grant to Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) president Datu Ik Pahon Joyik, witnessed by other dignitaries during the Bau District’s 205th anniversary celebration and the launch of the Tasik Biru Festival 2025 on May 15, 2025.

By Shikin Louis

BAU, May 15: Bau’s unique geological features, historical significance, and vibrant cultural diversity make it a key area for long-term economic development in Sarawak, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Speaking during the Bau District’s 205th anniversary celebration and the launch of the Tasik Biru Festival 2025, Abang Johari outlined a three-pronged vision for Bau’s future: recognising its natural assets, adding value to them, and setting a roadmap for the next 10 to 20 years.

“Geologically, Bau is blessed with unique beauty—its mountains, limestone soil, and caves make it a natural treasure. More importantly, Bau is also a model of religious and ethnic unity,” he said.

He emphasised that Bau is part of the Sarawak Delta Geopark, which is now listed as a national geopark alongside sites in Perak and other states.

“This natural asset will draw scientists and experts to study the Earth’s history in Bau. This is part of our preservation and conservation efforts,” he added.

The Premier also highlighted Bau’s deep historical roots, especially the intertwined legacies of Siniawan and Lidah Tanah—two historic settlements that played key roles during the Brooke era.

“Anyone studying Sarawak history cannot ignore Siniawan and Lidah Tanah. The bond between the Bidayuh and Malay communities here is like that of siblings. This is the heritage of Bau over the past 205 years,” he stressed.

Culturally, Abang Johari said Bau—alongside areas like Serian and parts of Kuching—showcases a unique and rich identity that should be preserved as part of Sarawak’s shared legacy.

“These cultural elements are now part of our history, and they can become the foundation—our basic resource—for driving Bau’s economic growth into the future,” he said.

Citing new opportunities through projects such as the Tasik Biru development, Abang Johari praised local entrepreneurs, including Tecktonic & Sons Holdings Sdn Bhd managing director Lee Chin Teck, for investing in Bau and called for public-private collaboration to unlock the town’s full economic potential.

He also pointed to broader infrastructure plans to support tourism, including the dual carriageway from Bau to Kuching and a new airport under the State’s own airline, AirBorneo, which is expected to launch by the end of this year.

Also present were Sarawak Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; Deputy Minister of Transport (Maritime and Riverine) and Tasik Biru assemblyman Dato Henry Harry Jinep; Puncak Borneo MP Datuk Willie Mongin; Batu Kitang assemblyman Dato Lo Khere Chiang; Serembu assemblyman Miro Simuh; Opar assemblyman Billy Sujang; and Bau District Officer Eddy Nayoi. — DayakDaily

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