Visitors in for a treat at Annah Rais on July 7

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Edward Kurik

KUCHING: Visitors are in for a treat when they visit Annah Rais Longhouse near Borneo Heights Resort during the Gawai Homestay event on July 7.

They will enjoy discounted rates when staying overnight there as well as a specially-arranged itinerary including a dip at the nearby hot spring.

Organising chairman Edward Kurik said the rates on July 7 will be RM150 per person, as opposed to normal price of RM240 and RM75 for children aged 13 years old.

“They will get to participate in traditional games like blowpipe and gasing. The visitors can also enjoy the Bidayuh Traditional Spa, where they will be brought for a dip in the hot spring along selected river stones which locals say have medicinal powers.

“To make it more memorable, they will bath with local herbs believed to aid in curing ailments. They will also enjoy a traditional dinner and breakfast,” he said yesterday.

According to Kurik, also a councillor with Padawan Municipal Council (MPP), the event was formerly known as Gawai Tourism and had been held for the past three years, the last one in September last year.

This year, he said Deputy Minister of Tourism Datuk James Dawos is scheduled to do the launching on July 7.

“The objective of the event is not only to promote the homestay as a tourist attraction, but also to showcase the culture of the Bidayuh from this area to the world,” he said.

He added that visitors to the longhouse are expected to arrive from 2pm on that day and they will be ushered to the longhouse and respective rooms.

At night, he said there will be cultural shows and live entertainment by dance troupes, local singers and a band.

“The booking period for the promotional rates started since June 18 and would end on July 3.

“Those interested can contact me at 016-8674175, Harry Busan (019-8596367) or Unit Pelancongan, MPP at 082-615566 extension 141,” he said.