Message by Minister of Tourism Sarawak

	I welcome all participants and visitors alike, to this historic event of Sarawak Regatta. On behalf of my Ministry, I wish all visitors for a fun and enjoyable stay. To add value of your stay, I would also like to invite visitors to explore the tourist attractions in and around Kuching. Sarawak Regatta has indeed posses an interesting history dated back as early as in 1872 during the Brooke’s ruling era where Sarawak River was marked as the main gateway into Kuching, for trading of essential goods, communication and protection from potential enemies. One could understand the reason of the beautiful landscape along the Sarawak River where the Fort Margherita, the Square Tower, the Astana and other colonial buildings which are in existence along the majestic river.
There are also many stories and incidences happened along the Sarawak River that excites many historians, one of them is the famous Brooke Swim across the Sarawak river which will be revived during this iconic. Introspectrively,the Sarawak Regatta event is just one way to showcase the exciting stories that took place in Sarawak. I hope this year’s Sarawak Regatta will provide extra value for tourist to see more historical events that somehow put flavours to the Heritage City of Kuching. By having events like this will also help to create a harmonious environment for locals to enjoy and experience. May I also add that as we are preparing ourselves to welcome the Visit Sarawak Year 2013, we are hoping to organise more tourism activities such as Sarawak Regatta that are able to attract more tourists. Last but not least, I wish all the very best to the Sarawak Regatta 2012 and live up to the theme ‘a race for peace…’ to all visitors and fellow Malaysian. Thank you. YB Datuk Amar Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Abang Haji Openg Minister of Housing Minister of Tourism SARAWAK