Sarawak’s haze is already changing travel plans, with the state recording a dip in tourist arrivals as air quality worsens. Tourism Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the decline was noticeable and could continue while the haze persists. He made the remarks in Kuching on Sept 5, as Serian remained under a state of emergency after its API reading passed 500 earlier in the week. The pressure is not limited to hotels and tour operators. Kuching’s Borderland Music Festival and Miri’s Jom Heboh Carnival are among the events facing a more difficult operating environment. Abdul Karim said organisers should follow SDMC guidance and reconsider outdoor plans when readings become very unhealthy. Kuching recorded an API reading of 313 on Sept 4. Serian was at 334 on the morning of Sept 5, after peaking at 521. Schools in 12 districts are scheduled to close from Sept 7 to 11, affecting nearly 200,000 students. For visitors, the practical question is whether an outdoor itinerary still makes sense on the day. Check the latest APIMS reading and event notice before travelling; the numbers can change with wind and rain.

UK Trade Envoy to ASEAN Naz Shah visited Kuching and toured the Borneo Cultures Museum, saying Sarawak has "significant potential" as an international cultural tourism destination. [image: 1781676282296-uk-envoy-kch-resized.jpg] During her visit on Tuesday, Shah was accompanied by Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Sarawak Artificial Intelligence Centre CEO Prof Dr Patrick Then, and museum curator Yasmin Khalid Nicholls. UK reaffirms commitment to Sarawak Shah said the UK remains committed to strengthening strategic cooperation with Malaysia, particularly Sarawak, and countries across the ASEAN region in trade, investment and tourism. "This has been an incredibly meaningful experience, and I want to share it with people in the UK so that more people can learn about and appreciate what Sarawak has to offer," she said. World-class museum She described the Borneo Cultures Museum (BCM) as a "world-class institution" that successfully showcases the cultural richness of Sarawak and Borneo to both local and international audiences. "What is displayed here is remarkable and provides a deeper understanding of the people and heritage of Sarawak," she added. Location: Borneo Cultures Museum, Kuching Details: UK reaffirms commitment to deepening ties with Sarawak in trade, investment and tourism Source: Borneo Post Online What do you think of Sarawak's growing international profile?