| Syazwani Hj Rosli |
THE Ministry of Primary Resources and Tourism (MPRT) strives to provide opportunities to local entrepreneurs in the primary resources industry, said the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism, YB Dato Paduka Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong.
In order to accelerate the growth of gross domestic product (GDP) and exports, as well as to generate more job opportunities, the ministry will provide investment opportunities to government-linked companies (GLCs) and foreign direct investments (FDI).
Regarding suggestions on the development of several areas in the Belait and Tutong districts as tourist destinations to showcase local arts and culture, the minister responded that among the aims is to strengthen the existing primary products for tourism in Bandar Seri Begawan, Kampong Ayer, Batang Duri and Ulu Temburong.
“We also want to focus on beaches, lakes, parks and forest reserves,” he said. “Apart from that, we are looking to develop tourism-oriented activities, such as diving, bird-watching, education tourism, Islamic tourism and homestays.”
He added that MPRT has received many proposals to develop numerous areas across the country into tourist destinations. “Proposals that are given priority will depend on several factors, including the ability of the Department of Tourism Development and the commercial viability.”
He also informed that the ministry issued a tender for a private sector company to manage, operate and maintain the Berakas Forest Reserve last January. The deadline ends in May, and the appointed company will commence managing the park in August. “If successful, the public-private partnership (PPP) would be extended and shared with other agencies towards developing several locations across all districts as tourist destinations,” he said.
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