Matan Carnival boosts village economy

ORGANISED for the third consecutive year, the Matan Carnival 2009 saw an increasing number of participation from residents of Kampung Sungai Matan as well as the private sector in efforts to promote domestic tourism.

According to the head of Kampung Sg Matan, Pg Hj Abdul Rahman Pg Hj Zainal, more people took part in this year's carnival compared to previous years. A total of 40 booths compared to 34 booked last year, operated within the vicinity of the village head's home offering visitors a taste of their culinary specialties, handmade products as well as fun and games. The crowds were also entertained with traditional and modern music.

The carnival was officially launched yesterday by Brunei-Muara District Officer Dato Paduka Hj Md Yussop Bakar who said that unity is the key in creating a harmonious and secure village, mukim and country. "It is not easy to gather a large group of people like today by looking at the number of tents set up this year. This demonstrates that the villagers are united," he said.

Apart from promoting the Tourism Development Department's "Kenali Negara Kitani" (KNK) initiative, the carnival was also designed to boost Kampung Sg Matan as a popular destination for both local and foreign tourists while keeping its residents close-knit while supporting the village's small enterprises.

"Prove to yourself and the Brunei Tourism Development Department that you are capable of doing them (activities to promote tourism) and you will get the necessary support needed to develop the village," said Pg Azmanishah Pg Hj Abd Rahman, marketing and promotions officer at Brunei Tourism Development Department. He said the department has confidence in the people of Sungai Matan after seeing them conduct the event consistently for three years.

He added that he would like to see a rise in the economy of the village through such carnivals as it could also provide job opportunities in the future and lessen dependency on the government.

The carnival, which will last until June 1 is opened from 7.30am until 5.30pm.

Various activities, including contests, have been lined up for visitors such as guessing the weight of seafood, casting a rambat and participating in karaoke sessions. Children, meanwhile, can amuse themselves with colouring contests, treasure hunts and party bouncers as well as lucky draws entitled for purchases of $10 above.

The carnival will also hold crab and dried prawns cooking competitions specifically for the villagers and former villagers of Sungai Matan on June 1. There are also vendors selling vegetables, fresh fish and prawns, fruits, local delicacies and processed food such as dried prawns, belacan, tahai, salted fish and handicraft.

Mona Florafauna Enterprise is also providing an unforgettable experience by organising special visits through its two-hour Eco-Historical Cruise Safari, and its one-hour mangrove boat safari.

Newly participating inbound operator, Sunshine Borneo Tours Sdn Bhd is also offering a pontoon boat cruise around Brunei Bay. The Brunei Times