Tanjung manis: The Tanjung Manis Fishing Safari will be officially included in Sarawak's tourism calendar starting next year as a major attraction aimed at drawing international anglers, announced Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. This move aligns with efforts to enhance Tanjung Manis' role in the second wave of the state's economic development.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the recognition at the state level will facilitate more structured planning and allow international participants to prepare well in advance. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Tanjung Manis Fishing Safari at the Tanjung Manis Express Terminal, the Premier noted that activities such as fishing, golf, and marathons have the potential to elevate Tanjung Manis on the global stage.

The state government has committed RM70 million to the construction of artificial reefs stretching from Telok Melano to Lawas, aiming to boost fish breeding and safeguard local waters from foreign trawler encroachment. The Premier emphasized the need for stricter enforcement and additional support from the Sarawak Coast Guard to protect marine resources.

Tanjung Manis is set to become a key focus of the state's development strategy by integrating aspects of food security, tourism, and the carbon economy. Plans for the area include expanding the local airport to accommodate larger aircraft, developing Belawai as a coastal tourism destination with hotels, homestays, and a golf course, and enhancing the ecotourism sector.

Starting next year, Sarawak's airline, AirBorneo, will introduce flights for tourists from Korea and Japan, expected to further stimulate the local economy through food, cultural, and nature-based tourism. The recent safari saw participation from 146 anglers, who competed in two categories: deep-sea and coastal fishing.