TUTONG

COMMUNITY-BASED tourism development can be a niche market that contributes to Brunei’s socio-economy, said the minister of home affairs.

Yang Berhormat Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Hj Awg Badaruddin Pengarah Dato Paduka Hj Awg Othman said Brunei can take advantage of its rich cultural heritage in the communities and provide jobs to youth.

Cultural performances from the different Malay ethnic groups in Brunei will reflect the sultanate’s community to tourists, he told reporters on the sidelines of the launch of Bintudoh Greenspring Resort in Tutong yesterday.

The minister noted that the involvement of youth working at the resort showed the unity and understanding among the residents and grassroots leaders.

The Gong 3 Culture performance from the Dusun, Kedayan and Tutong ethnic groups was a prime example that should be followed by other communities in Brunei, said YB Pehin Dato Ustaz Hj Awg Badaruddin.

“Social cohesion is the glue that binds people together. The performances during the launch will strengthen unity and understanding in the community,” said the minister.

He went on to say that youths in the cultural performance group were employed as part of a tourism package, which can encourage Brunei’s youth in developing community-based tourism.

He further hoped the resort can be further developed through the support of the community and the government.

Newas Ukoi, owner of Bintudoh Greenspring Resort, said the resort received more than 1,400 visitors last year.

“Most visitors come during the Adau Gayoh Festival and fruit seasons sometime in August and September,” he told The Brunei Times, adding that the resort opened in December 2012.

Mukim Lamunin Penghulu Hj Tujoh Talip said the resort currently employs 10 local youths, who are paid $15 on average daily.

The Brunei Times