Ties fostered at Kuching bike week

KUCHING: International events such as Kuching International Bike Week (KIBW) are in line with BIMP-Eaga’s effort to foster ties through tourism.

Pointing this out, Tourism Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg said the rising number of motorcycling convoys and events in Borneo had led to stronger ties among the three countries: Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia.

“Today, over 1,200 motorcycles from various clubs of Sarawak, Sabah, Brunei and Kalimantan throng Kuching to be part of the event, and we see big potential here,” said Abang Johari.

He was met by reporters after flagging off the KIBW convoys at Kuching South City Council (MBKS) headquarters yesterday. They were heading for Damai Central.

“With the construction of the Pan Borneo Highway, such events will surely boost the number of participants. This will also lead to greater understanding of the people and their culture,” he said.

He hoped next year’s event would be bigger.

Meanwhile, stunt rider Aaron Twite from the United States said he was honoured to be brought on his maiden trip to Kuching.

“It’s a fantastic experience to be able to perform in front of the crowd thousands of miles away from home, and to experience the culture,” Aaron said.

Yesterday Aaron performed stunts with his heavily modified Kawasaki Ninja in front of hundreds of KIBW participants.

The four-day event which started on Sept 3 will end at City One Shopping Mall today.

Assistant Housing Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah was among those present.