Huge potential for Pelagus Rapids as adventure tourism destination

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EXPOSED: Nanta (right) briefs Dawos on the many rocks which used to be submerged before the impoundment of Bakun dam, and which had hindered navigation.

KAPIT: Deputy Minister of Tourism Datuk Dr James Dawos Mamit sees a great potential for Pelagus Rapids to be developed and promoted as an adventure tourism destination, especially for white water rafting.

“Pelagus Rapids is the icon of the Kapit tourism industry when properly developed. Since the impoundment of Bakun HEP, the river landscape has drastically changed. The numerous islands in the middle of the river and white water are excellent for river cruise. The strong current at the rapids is perfect for white water safari like kayaking,” he said.

This was his comment when approached by pressmen who followed him on a speed boat ride to the Pelagus Rapids on Sunday afternoon.

He was accompanied by Kapit MP Datuk Alexander Nanta Linggi, Kapit Resident Dahim Nadot, his deputy Mohd Ikhmal Abdullah, Kapit District Officer Simon Japut Tiok, Song District Officer Galong Luang, heads of government departments and community leaders who travelled in a convoy of speed boats.

For the idea to come to fruition, he suggested that some enterprising individuals develop the place by building chalets as many foreign tourists would love the stone beach (karangan batu) and the many islands for sunbathing. He said the place must be made accessible by providing boats and other logistics.

Commenting on Regency Pelagus Resorts which failed to attract tourists and had already ceased operation since last October, Dawos said the failure was due to the lack of publicity and poor marketing strategy.

Dawos earlier on officiated at the Power Boat Race at Kapit jetty.