Rokiah Mahmud
The Tourism Development Department has strengthened primary tourism products and introduced emerging products with the potential to be developed as tourist attractions. This is one of the many strategies devised to support the local tourism industry, bruised by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong highlighted this during the launch of the Temburong Product Packages at The Abode Resort & Spa in Temburong District yesterday.
Since the second COVID-19 outbreak in August last year, the Tourism Development Department has embarked on reviewing and identifying tourism products and activities that can be rolled out as packages across the four districts. Brochures have been produced carrying information of the offerings.
“These packages are sample itineraries. The prices do not include accommodation, food and drinks, transportation and travel agent service charge. The reason is to provide indicative prices and flexibility in accordance to tourists’ preference. The packages hope to assist tourists in planning their journeys. Additionally, the use of travel agent services is encouraged to ensure a safe vacation that is smooth and manageable.
“Temburong District is popular for its natural flora and fauna, and it has become increasingly popular since the opening of the Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Bridge that links Temburong District to other districts.
“Apart from that, the Ulu Temburong National Park, otherwise known as ‘The Green Jewel of Brunei,” is popular among nature lovers and travellers. The 50-metre-high canopy walk allows tourists to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the vast green forest,” Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali said.
Another popular eco-tourism destination is the Sumbiling Eco-Village – an eco-lodge offering a unique glamping experience with activities that include a guided herbal discovery track, foraging activity and the farm-to-table experience that serves an array of traditional Iban cuisine.
Activities such as water rafting, zip-lining and wall climbing – available at Freme Rainforest Lodge and Adventure Park and at Trandie Brunei in Kampong Batang Duri; river tubing, bush craft activities and the bamboo chicken cooking experience offered by AZ Back to Nature Camp are also available in Tembruong District.
“Early this year, The Abode Resort & Spa commenced operations, using 100 per cent solar power. It also emphasises sustainable nature elements as part of its main attraction for tourists,” the minister said.
Other places in Temburong District also offer tourism packages that highlight their local products and activities.
“Alhamdulillah, these product packages have been produced in collaboration with stakeholders, including the Association of Travel Agents Brunei, Brunei Association of Hotels (BAH), service providers – including community based products as well as the Village Consultative Council (MPK),” he said.
The Tourism Development Department has also produced promotional videos focussing on tourism products and activities across all four districts. The department also collaborated with Radio Television Brunei to promote interesting places and activities in Brunei Darussalam through a travelogue series.
Travel agents and the media also play an important role in promoting tourism products and activities in the country, with familiarisation trips allowing them to gain first-hand experience and better understand the products and activities.
