MIRI – The past year of movement restrictions have seen many people suffering huge losses, especially those in the tourism sector.
“There has been no business for local tour guides and local homestay operators in Mulu National Park for the past year.
“We have no income,” said tour guide Willie Kajan.
Willie, who lives in Miri and operates guided tours to Mulu National Park, told The Vibes that due to closed borders, he has not seen foreign tourists since last year and domestic tourists are few and far between.
He said as a freelance guide, his earnings depend on tips from tour groups.
“I do not have a fixed salary as I don’t have a company. I do not qualify for any government-aid packages as I am working freelance.
“For now, I am surviving by planting some crops and fruits, selling them for subsistence. I am also using my personal savings.”
Meanwhile, in the city, many food shops that were once thriving can no longer remain open.
In downtown Miri, coffeeshops that used to be bustling until the wee hours are now closed as early as 5pm.
Ting Tiong Sing, who runs a coffee shop in old town Miri, said he has been operating at a loss for the past year.
“My rental for the shop is RM4,000 per month. My profit per day is less than RM200 and I still need to pay for my cooks and utilities. I don’t know if I can continue much longer," he said.
Sarawak Tourism, Culture and Arts Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Hamzah had said the tourism revenue for the state is about RM4 billion per year, but has dwindled to RM1 billion for the past year. – The Vibes, March 18, 2021
