Sarawak wins PATA Gold Grand Title for record-breaking drone relay, champions culture-led tourism

By Amanda L

KUCHING, Aug 19: Sarawak has won a Grand Title at the PATA Gold Awards 2026 for its record-breaking drone relay, adding another international accolade to its tourism marketing efforts.

The award, under the Marketing category, recognised Sarawak’s Guinness World Records achievement for the longest cumulative distance by a remote-controlled multirotor/drone relay and was presented during the Soul of Borneo Gala Dinner here tonight, held in conjunction with PATA Travel Mart 2026, where Sarawak also showcased its wider tourism offerings.

Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said Sarawak wanted visitors to experience more than its destinations, with people, cultures and traditions forming a central part of the tourism experience.

“Business and partnerships are important.

“But it is the encounters between people, cultures and places that create lasting memories,” he said.

Abdul Karim said music, storytelling, dance, craftsmanship and traditional flavours passed down through generations were among the experiences that allowed visitors to connect with Sarawak beyond its physical attractions.

“We are promoting these elements alongside our natural and cultural assets, including our indigenous heritage, biodiversity, festivals and communities,” he added.

At the same event, a total of 25 restaurants were honoured for their contributions to Sarawak’s food and hospitality scene across five categories:

Sustainable Gastronomy Awards

Top International Restaurants

Top Creative Restaurants

Top Indigenous Restaurants

Signature Top 25 Restaurants

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