By Aemy Azlena

This was said by Nordin Ahmad of Brunei Tourism in a speech at Balai Raya, Tasek Merimbun yesterday, which saw the signing of agreement between Kampong Tasek Merimbun Consultative Council and Mona Florafauna Tours Enterprise to work together towards promoting and managing Tasek Merimbun.

The two parties will also work together in a project that aims at eco-cultural heritage tourism, one of the new activities taken on by Brunei Tourism.

Nordin Ahmad said, "With the cooperation of Kampong Tasek Merimbun Consultative Council and people of Kenali Negeri Kitani (KNK), it is possible to allow a village to have its uniqueness, potential and ability to be promoted as a place of interest."

He added that the project also aims to answer the call by the Ministry of Home Affairs to introduce "One Village, One Product" initiatives.

According to Nordin Ahmad, the objective of the project is to educate the local community on tourism potential in the country.

He concluded by calling on KNK to exchange views with village heads to ensure villages are included in the country's tourism package.

Meanwhile, signing the agreement on behalf of Kampong Tasek Merimbun Consultative Council was Tasek Merimbun village chief Untong Madah, while Mona Florafauna Tours Enterprise was represented by its managing director, Mohd Daud bin Abdullah.

Present to witness the ceremony were Mukim Rambai Tutong penghulu Mohd Khairul Nurul Arsyad Haji Abdul Malek and Samhan Nyawa of Brunei Museum.

Tasek Merimbun Recreational Park will be professionally managed by Kampong Tasek Merimbun Consultative Council, and facilities updated and maintained to encourage increased flow of visitors and tourist.

Additionally, locals will be employed for their knowledge of the area, while those from Mona Florafauna Tours Enterprise will assist by providing advice and suggestions on what tourists want while protecting the environment.

There have also been plans for a new bridge, which Kampong Tasek Merimbun Consultative Council will fund with the proceeds from its Tamu Muhibah and river cruises.

Following the signing, all those present paid a visit to Tamu Muhibah, attended a Ngajat performance by Iban, and went on a boat cruise in Tasek Merimbun.