LIMBANG: A total of RM10 million has been allocated under the 11th Malaysia Plan for infrastructure development and joint tourism projects with Brunei.

Tourism Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Abang Openg said Limbang had tourism potential as it is  strategically located in the Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Philippines – East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA).

He said projects on the drawing board include basic infrastructure at Gunung Buda, construction of a bridge across Sungai Limbang to connect Limbang and Bandar Seri Begawan, and a leisure boat service along Limbang River.

“We have strategic plans to develop the tourism sector in Limbang,” he said when officiating at the Limbang Festival and Regatta yesterday.

Also present were Limbang MP Hasbi Habibollah, Bukit Kota assemblyman Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail, Batu Danau assemblyman Paulus Palu Gumbang, Pantai Damai assemblyman Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi, political secretary to the Chief Minister Abdullah Saidoi and Limbang Resident Maria Hasman.

Abang Johari said the proposed bridge across Limbang River would alter the landscape of Limbang, much like Sydney Habour in Australia.

Visitors could use leisure boats to sail past the bridge and enjoy a panoramic  view  of Limbang, nicknamed `buffalo  town’.

He stressed that eco-tourism was important for the local economy, and the handicraft industry could become more attractive.

Abang Johari stressed that this rosy picture was possible as the Barisan Nasional government was always working hard for the people.

On the flip side, he urged the people to continue working closely with the government.

At the function, he announced a grant of RM50,000 for Limbang Festival 2013.