MUKAH: The Sarawak government is set to upgrade and add several new facilities aimed at enhancing both the tourism value and community utility of the Oya Kaul Festival site, the Sarawak Public Communications Unit reported.
Sarawak Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah unveiled plans for comprehensive improvements during the inauguration ceremony of the Oya Kaul Festival 2024, held at the site on Sunday.
Key projects include extending the sea retaining wall along Kuala Hilir Oya Beach and enhancing visitor amenities with a total projected budget of around RM4 million for initial developments.
The project scope includes constructing a 230-metre rock armour revetment and a 300-metre-long walkway, alongside a new jetty for local fishermen and upgraded lighting along the beachfront.
"To attract visitors not only during the festival but throughout the year, it is crucial to improve and expand the existing facilities," Fatimah said.
Additional plans feature the construction of a seafood food court, similar to those popular in Melaka, and a permanent main stage with roofing to accommodate various events.
A multipurpose hall is also in the works to facilitate children's activities and departmental team-building programmes.
Sarawak governor Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, along with his wife, Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, attended the event, demonstrating the high-level support for the project. Also present was Tellian assemblyman, Royston Valentine, who echoed the sentiment on community benefits.
The initiative also includes a business site fully equipped for various uses such as weddings, with comprehensive facilities including landscaping, toilets, and a replica of the 'Teba Tuanku' or Tuanku's well. The total cost for these additions is estimated at another RM4 million.
An extra RM1.2 million is earmarked for constructing a surau to cater to the spiritual needs of the visitors and the local community.
Fatimah also revisited the project history, noting its inception by Wan Junaidi in 2016 when he served as the federal minister of Natural Resources and Environment. Originally approved for RM19.5 million, budget adjustments brought the project to a current total of RM14.4 million.
This renovation and expansion effort at the Oya Kaul Site are seen as vital for enriching the community's cultural and social landscape, further promoting Sarawak as a key destination for both local and international tourists.
