THE Sarawak Agrotourism Conference and Expo (SAtCE) aims to showcase and promote both the state and the region’s agrotourism internationally.
It brings together local and foreign participants as well as experts to collaborate in building up the agrotourism sector in Sarawak and Malaysia.
This inaugural agrotourism conference and expo will gather 350 delegates and 150 exhibitors from the agriculture, tourism and agrotourism sectors in hopes of creating awareness of the potential of agrotourism for both the state and the country.
The agrotourism expo also offers a one-stop centre for stakeholders of the agrotourism ecosystem and key players of the sector to display the best that can be offered to visitors on agrotourism products, to not only strengthen the industry’s position but also encourage more ventures.
The event themed “Promoting Agrotourism Sustainably” is scheduled to take place from Aug 28 to 30 at the Borneo Convention Centre in Kuching.
Organised by Derrisen Sdn Bhd, SAtCE 2023 is endorsed by Sarawak’s Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Ministry (M-Ficord), Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Ministry (MTCP) and Business Events Sarawak.
About 20 industry experts from Malaysia, Australia, India, Indonesia, New Zealand, the Philippines and Thailand are confirmed as speakers and will share their knowledge and experiences on specialised topics of agrotourism.
At the conference, relevant ministries and agencies will also unveil the policies and assistance available that will benefit industry players and encourage more ventures to further the reach of agrotourism in Sarawak.
According to SAtCE project consultant Nor Azmi Sulong, this is the first time such an event is being organised in Sarawak.
“We are also thrilled that Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg has agreed to officiate at SAtCE.
“It shows that the Sarawak government is highly committed to developing the agrotourism sector,” said Nor Azmi.
M-Ficord permanent secretary Sirai Daha said, “As the ministry responsible for spearheading the development of agriculture and rural communities in Sarawak, we are delighted to support SAtCE in developing the agrotourism sector.
“It is part of our mission to transform and sustain the agriculture and rural economy through modernisation and commercialisation.”
Sirai commended the organiser for their efforts in putting together such an event in Kuching.
“We welcome entrepreneurs, the private sector and farmers to take part in this important event and welcome all delegates to Kuching,” added Sirai.
“Agrotourism is a concept rapidly gaining popularity,” said MTCP permanent secretary Datu Sherrina Hussaini.
“Coupled with the increased awareness of sustainability in tourism, the organising of SAtCE is timely to remind industry players from the agriculture and tourism sectors of the great potential that lies in agrotourism.
“Sarawak, as a state rich in agricultural resources, has the advantage of further developing agrotourism,” said Sherrina.
The three-day SAtCE is now open for participation booking.
The organiser has tailor-made a series of marketing and promotional packages to assist industry players in promoting their products and services to targeted audiences.
For details on SAtCE, email azmi@derrisen.com or visit www.agrotourismsarawak.com