KUCHING: The Botanic Garden and Heritage Trail here will form an integrated green and cultural corridor designed to enhance urban sustainability while offering new attractions for both locals and tourists.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the development comprises two main components, namely the Botanic Garden and Heritage Trail, that will be connected all the way to the Reservoir Park.
“We have planned this carefully. There are two components. One is the Botanic Garden and the second is the Heritage Trail which will be connected up to the Reservoir,” he told reporters after participating in the ‘Walk For Health Programme with Premier’ here on Sunday (Feb 1).
He said that both components will be complemented by biodiversity attractions, including a wide range of tropical plants, to create recreational spaces for the public and visitors to appreciate Sarawak’s natural heritage.
According to him, the garden will feature elements with tropical species, which are expected to contribute towards the sustainability of a low-carbon city while aligning with the state’s Smart City initiative.
“In terms of scale, the area is quite large. As Kuching is the state capital, it is important that we have complete facilities that are related to the low-carbon and Smart City concepts,” he said.
Abang Johari added that the project is already being implemented, with the focus now also on long-term maintenance and several statutory bodies will be involved in managing the areas.
He noted that Darul Hana will serve as a key connectivity point linking the area to the museum precinct, the Reservoir and the Performance Arts Centre.
Touching on the arts and cultural aspect, he said the Performance Arts Centre has already shown encouraging progress, with an increase in performing arts activities.
“Last night, we were informed that an orchestra collaboration with Japan received a very warm response. This shows that once our performance arts facilities are fully ready, we will be able to attract international performances, including theatre and musicals,” he said.
He added that international performances often come with strong followings, which would help boost tourism.
To support this, he said Sarawak is investing in modern infrastructure for the performing arts sector.
“We have referred to the Royal Albert Hall in London as one of the models for our development,” he said.
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