AWARDS
Nomination
Open: March 25, 2024
Close: April 30, 2024
Award Categories
Stay tuned until March 25th for the finalized category and information about participation criteria.
Best Tour Operator, Tours & Tourist Guide
Best Accommodation
Best Dining, Retail & Recreational Experiences
Best Special Interest TourismBest Tour Operator, Tours & Tourist GuideThis award recognizes the best tour operator, agents, and packages with positive reviews, customer satisfaction ratings, quality of service, range of destination offered, value of money, et cetera. The awards category divide into 05 subcategories:
Description
This award recognizes the exceptional tour operator in Sarawak who consistently delivers unparalleled travel experiences to their clientele through a commitment to professionalism, service excellence, and innovation.
Eligibility
This Award is open to tour operators licensed under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Malaysia, which must have been in operation within the calendar year of at least 2022 – 2023.
Judging Criteria
PRODUCTS & SERVICES
MARKETING & PROMOTION
ACHIEVEMENT
MISCELLANEOUS
Nomination has now closed
Description
This award recognizes the best overseas travel agent who has made exceptional contributions in promoting Sarawak as a tourist destination and significantly increased visitor arrivals to the state.
Eligibility
This Award is open to oversea agents endorsed and recognised by Sarawak Tourism Board and Tourism Malaysia, with active operations within the calendar year of at least 2022 – 2023. Market could include Long Haul (Europe & US), Medium Haul (India, Middle East, North Asia, Oceania), Short Haul (ASEAN).
Judging Criteria
PRODUCTS & SERVICES
MARKETING & PROMOTION
ACHIEVEMENT
MISCELLANEOUS
Nomination has now closed
Description
This award recognizes the most unforgettable tour experience created and offered by a Sarawak travel operator. This package must showcase the unique offerings of Sarawak, immersing guests in the state’s rich culture, captivating landscapes, and diverse activities. The winning tour experience must demonstrably attract visitors to Sarawak and contribute to its positive image as a premier travel destination.
Eligibility
This award is open to tour operators licensed under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Malaysia, with active operations within the calendar year of at least 2022 – 2023. Tour packages nominated must be actively marketed and offered during the same period and are still being conducted regularly.
Judging Criteria
PRODUCTS & SERVICES
MARKETING & PROMOTION
ACHIEVEMENT
Nomination has now closed
Description
This award recognizes the most captivating special interest experience offered in Sarawak. This can be a unique activity, tour package, or program developed and managed by Sarawak-based companies or communities. It should cater to specific interests and passions, immersing guests in the cultural richness, natural beauty, and diverse offerings of Sarawak. The winning experience must demonstrably attract visitors from overseas and contribute to promoting Sarawak as a premier travel destination for special interest tourism.
Eligibility
This award is open to Sarawak-based companies or communities actively operating within the calendar year of at least 2022 – 2023. The nominated special interest experience must be actively offered and marketed during the same period. Examples of special interest experiences include outdoor adventure activities, hobbies, and specialized interests like golf, diving, cycling, regatta, kayaking, rafting, caving, diving, fishing, and motorsports.
Judging Criteria
PRODUCTS & SERVICES
MARKETING & PROMOTION
ACHIEVEMENT
MISCELLANEOUS
Nomination has now closed
Description
This award recognizes the outstanding tourist guide in Sarawak who consistently delivers exceptional customer service and fosters remarkable experiences for visitors. This individual exemplifies professionalism, knowledge, and dedication, ensuring that tourists discover and appreciate the wonders of Sarawak to the fullest.
Eligibility
This award is open to any licensed and actively practicing tourist guide in Sarawak within the calendar year of 2022 / 2023. All entries must be registered under either the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Malaysia or Sarawak Forestry Corporation. Eligible guides must hold a valid Regional Specific Tourist Guide/Park Guide license issued within the year range.
Judging Criteria
CUSTOMER FOCUS
PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE
MISCELLANEOUS
Nomination has now closed
Best AccommodationDescription
This award recognizes hotels and other accommodation providers across Sarawak who consistently deliver exceptional guest experiences, showcasing the best aspects of Sarawak’s hospitality and contributing to the state’s positive image as a tourist destination.
Eligibility
This award is open to all licensed and actively operating accommodation providers in Sarawak within the calendar year of at least 2022 – 2023. All entries must be registered under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Malaysia (MOTAC) and possess all necessary certifications (councils, BOMBA, trade license, etc.).
Judging Criteria
LICENSING
SERVICES
FACILITIES
FOOD & BEVERAGE
OTHERS
Nomination has now closed
Description
This award recognizes hotels and other accommodation providers across Sarawak who consistently deliver exceptional guest experiences, showcasing the best aspects of Sarawak’s hospitality and contributing to the state’s positive image as a tourist destination.
Eligibility
This award is open to all licensed and actively operating accommodation providers in Sarawak within the calendar year of at least 2022 – 2023. All entries must be registered under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Malaysia (MOTAC) and possess all necessary certifications (councils, BOMBA, trade license, etc.).
Judging Criteria
LICENSING
SERVICES
FACILITIES
FOOD & BEVERAGE
OTHERS
Nomination has now closed
Description
This award recognizes hotels and other accommodation providers across Sarawak who consistently deliver exceptional guest experiences, showcasing the best aspects of Sarawak’s hospitality and contributing to the state’s positive image as a tourist destination.
Eligibility
This award is open to all licensed and actively operating accommodation providers in Sarawak within the calendar year of at least 2022 – 2023. All entries must be registered under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Malaysia (MOTAC) and possess all necessary certifications (councils, BOMBA, trade license, etc.).
Judging Criteria
LICENSING
SERVICES
FACILITIES
FOOD & BEVERAGE
OTHERS
Nomination has now closed
Description
This award recognizes hotels and other accommodation providers across Sarawak who consistently deliver exceptional guest experiences, showcasing the best aspects of Sarawak’s hospitality and contributing to the state’s positive image as a tourist destination.
Eligibility
This award is open to all licensed and actively operating accommodation providers in Sarawak within the calendar year of at least 2022 – 2023. All entries must be registered under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Malaysia (MOTAC) and possess all necessary certifications (councils, BOMBA, trade license, etc.).
Judging Criteria
LICENSING
SERVICES
FACILITIES
FOOD & BEVERAGE
OTHERS
Nomination has now closed
Best Dining, Retail & Recreational ExperiencesThis award is an accolade given to venues or establishments that excel in providing exceptional experiences across dining, retail, and recreational offerings. This award recognizes venues that go above and beyond in delivering high-quality services, products, and experiences to their guests or customers. The awards category divide into 06 subcategories:
Description
This award recognizes outstanding dining establishments in Sarawak that consistently deliver exceptional culinary experiences. These restaurants create remarkable atmospheres, showcase the finest local ingredients, and contribute to Sarawak’s reputation as a premier food destination.
Fine Dining: Restaurant, Café, Bistro
Eligibility
This award is open to all licensed dining establishments in operation in the calendar year of at least 2022 – 2023. All entries must possess valid council licenses.
Judging Criteria
DINING EXPERIENCE
SARAWAK’S CULINARY IDENTITY
MARKETING & PROMOTION
ACHIEVEMENT
MISCELLANEOUS
Nomination has now closed
Description
This award recognizes outstanding dining establishments in Sarawak that consistently deliver exceptional culinary experiences. These restaurants create remarkable atmospheres, showcase the finest local ingredients, and contribute to Sarawak’s reputation as a premier food destination.
Casual Dining: Kopitiam, Food Court, Hawker Center
Eligibility
This award is open to all licensed dining establishments in operation in the calendar year of at least 2022 – 2023. All entries must possess valid council licenses.
Judging Criteria
DINING EXPERIENCE
SARAWAK’S CULINARY IDENTITY
MARKETING & PROMOTION
ACHIEVEMENT
MISCELLANEOUS
Nomination has now closed
Description
This award recognizes the outstanding retail establishment or shopping mall in Sarawak that delivers a captivating and enriching shopping experience for visitors. The winning entry will showcase innovation, a unique retail mix, and a commitment to showcasing Sarawak’s cultural heritage, fostering a memorable experience for tourists.
Eligibility
This award is open to all licensed and actively operating shopping malls and retail establishments in Sarawak within the calendar year of at least 2022- 2023. All entries must possess valid licenses from local councils and SSM.
Judging Criteria
SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
SARAWAK’S UNIQUE IDENTITY
MARKETING & PROMOTION
ACHIEVEMENT
MISCELLANEOUS
Nomination has now closed
Description
This award recognizes the outstanding spa or wellness establishment in Sarawak that offers exceptional and rejuvenating experiences, promoting holistic well-being for visitors. The winning entry will showcase innovation, a commitment to using local elements, and a dedication to creating a transformative spa experience that reflects the unique character of Sarawak.
Eligibility
This award is open to all licensed and actively operating spa and wellness establishments in Sarawak within the calendar year of at least 2022 – 2023. Eligible establishments may include spa in hotels, shopping malls, tourism attractions, wellness resorts, retreats, integrated wellness centers, medispas, and city spa facilities. Spa & Wellness Operators need not be rated under MOTAC but must be a member of MAWSPA (Malaysian Wellness & SPA Association) & AMSPA (Association of Malaysian Spas).
Judging Criteria
SPA & WELLNESS EXPERIENCE
SARAWAK’S UNIQUE IDENTITY
MARKETING & PROMOTION
ACHIEVEMENT
MISCELLANEOUS
Nomination has now closed
Description
This award recognizes the outstanding entertainment experiences in Sarawak that consistently delivers captivating and enriching experiences for visitors. The winning establishment will offer a unique atmosphere, high-quality entertainment options, and a commitment to showcasing Sarawak’s cultural identity, creating a lasting impression on tourists. This would include homestays and long house experiences.
Eligibility
This award is open to all licensed and actively operating entertainment establishments in Sarawak within the calendar year of at least 2022 – 2023. Eligible establishments may include live music venues, theatres, cultural performance spaces, comedy clubs, bars, karaoke, and family entertainment centers.
Judging Criteria
ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCE
SARAWAK’S CULTURAL IDENTITY
MARKETING & PROMOTION
ACHIEVEMENT
Nomination has now closed
Best Special Interest TourismThis award recognizes outstanding achievements and contributions in specialized areas of tourism that cater to specific interests (niche markets). The awards category divide into 03 subcategories:
Description
This award recognizes the healthcare institution in Sarawak that consistently delivers exceptional medical services and facilities, attracting international patients and contributing significantly to the state’s reputation as a premier medical tourism destination.
Eligibility
This award is open to all licensed and actively operating healthcare institutions in Sarawak (i.e. hospital, rehabilitation centers, etc.) within the calendar year of at least 2019 – 2023. Eligible institutions must demonstrate a commitment to international patient care, including provisions for language assistance, cultural sensitivity, and seamless medical tourism packages.
Judging Criteria
MEDICAL EXCELLENCE
PATIENT EXPERIENCE
MARKETING & PROMOTION
ACHIEVEMENT
MISCELLANEOUS
Nomination has now closed
Description
This award recognizes the SMM2H agent in Sarawak who demonstrates exceptional dedication and expertise in facilitating the SMM2H program, contributing significantly to attracting foreign residents and promoting Sarawak as a desirable second home destination.
Eligibility
This award is open to all licensed and actively operating SMM2H agents in Sarawak within the calendar year of at least 2022 – 2023. Agents must be registered with the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Malaysia, and demonstrate a strong commitment to promoting Sarawak as a premier SMM2H destination.
Judging Criteria
SMM2H EXPERTISE AND CLIENT SERVICE
CONTRIBUTION TO SARAWAK’S SMM2H PROGRAM
MISCELLANEOUS
Nomination has now closed
Description
This award recognizes the outstanding educational institution in Sarawak that offers innovative and enriching learning experiences for international students through short term student exchange programs or long-term curriculum. The winning institution will demonstrate a commitment to attracting a diverse student body, contributing to Sarawak’s reputation as a vibrant and welcoming hub for international education.
Eligibility
This award is open to all accredited and actively operating educational institutions in Sarawak within the calendar year of at least 2022 – 2023. Eligible institutions must offer recognized academic programs and demonstrate a strong commitment to diverse international student recruitment and support strategies.
Judging Criteria
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATION
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT EXPERIENCE
INFRASTRUCTURE & FACILITIES
MISCELLANEOUS
Nomination has now closed
Best Attractions
Best Promotion and Social Media Contribution to the Tourism Industry
Best Tourism Events and Festivals Experiences
Special Hornbill AwardsBest AttractionsThe “Best Attraction” refers to a recognition or award given to a specific tourist attraction that offers an exceptional and memorable experience to visitors. The awards category divide into 02 subcategories:
Description
This award recognizes the outstanding visitor attraction in Sarawak that consistently delivers immersive and unforgettable experiences for visitors, leaving a lasting impression and fostering deeper connections with Sarawak’s unique culture, heritage, and natural environment.
Eligibility
This award is open to all licensed and actively operating visitor attractions in Sarawak during the calendar year of at least 2022 – 2023.
Judging Criteria
IMMERSIVE AND ENGAGING EXPERIENCE
INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY
MARKETING & PROMOTION
ACHIEVEMENT
MISCELLANEOUS
Nomination has now closed
Description
This award recognizes the outstanding community-based tourism initiative in Sarawak that provides visitors with authentic and enriching experiences, fostering meaningful connections with local communities, culture, and the natural environment. The winning initiative will showcase a commitment to cultural preservation, sustainable practices, and community empowerment, contributing positively to Sarawak’s tourism industry.
Eligibility
This award is open to all actively operating community-based tourism initiatives in Sarawak within the calendar year of at least 2022 – 2023.
Judging Criteria
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND CULTURAL AUTHENTICITY
SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES AND IMPACT
MARKETING & PROMOTION
ACHIEVEMENT
MISCELLANEOUS
Nomination has now closed
Best Promotion and Social Media Contribution to the Tourism IndustryTo recognize individuals, organizations, or initiatives that demonstrate excellence in promoting destinations, attractions, or tourism experiences through effective marketing strategies and impactful use of social media platforms. The awards category divide into 03 subcategories:
Description
This award recognizes outstanding contributions to promoting Sarawak as a unique and captivating travel destination through various media channels. The winning entry will demonstrate exceptional creativity, innovation, and storytelling, effectively engaging audiences and inspiring them to experience the wonders of Sarawak.
Eligibility
a) This award is open to individuals, organizations, or media entities who have created and published tourism-related content about Sarawak within the calendar year of 2019 – 2023. Entries can be submitted in various formats, including print media (newspapers, magazines), online media (websites, blogs), and social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc.).
b) Each item can only be entered into one category.
c) Items eligible for entry must be:
- Published and proof (e.g., press cutting, screenshot) must be provided.
- Authentic and the intellectual property of the contestant submitting the item.
- Published within the stated time given. (1st January 2019 – 31st December 2023)
d) Time limits for Tourism Related Videos:
- Short Promo Video (less than15 minutes)
- TV Documentary / TV Magazine Programme (more than 15 minutes).
e) Photos must be included with Captions, Proof of Publishing and Image and Camera Use Details.
Judging Criteria
CREATIVITY & INNOVATION
EFFECTIVENESS
QUALITY & PROFESSIONALISM
Nomination has now closed
Description
This award recognizes outstanding contributions to promoting Sarawak as a unique and captivating travel destination through various media channels. The winning entry will demonstrate exceptional creativity, innovation, and storytelling, effectively engaging audiences and inspiring them to experience the wonders of Sarawak.
Eligibility
a) This award is open to individuals, organizations, or media entities who have created and published tourism-related content about Sarawak within the calendar year of 2019 – 2023. Entries can be submitted in various formats, including print media (newspapers, magazines), online media (websites, blogs), and social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc.).
b) Each item can only be entered into one category.
c) Items eligible for entry must be:
- Published and proof (e.g., press cutting, screenshot) must be provided.
- Authentic and the intellectual property of the contestant submitting the item.
- Published within the stated time given. (1st January 2019 – 31st December 2023)
d) Time limits for Tourism Related Videos:
- Short Promo Video (less than15 minutes)
- TV Documentary / TV Magazine Programme (more than 15 minutes).
e) Photos must be included with Captions, Proof of Publishing and Image and Camera Use Details.
Judging Criteria
CREATIVITY & INNOVATION
EFFECTIVENESS
QUALITY & PROFESSIONALISM
Nomination has now closed
Description
This award recognizes outstanding contributions to promoting Sarawak as a unique and captivating travel destination through various media channels. The winning entry will demonstrate exceptional creativity, innovation, and storytelling, effectively engaging audiences and inspiring them to experience the wonders of Sarawak.
Eligibility
a) This award is open to individuals, organizations, or media entities who have created and published tourism-related content about Sarawak within the calendar year of 2019 – 2023. Entries can be submitted in various formats, including print media (newspapers, magazines), online media (websites, blogs), and social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc.).
b) Each item can only be entered into one category.
c) Items eligible for entry must be:
- Published and proof (e.g., press cutting, screenshot) must be provided.
- Authentic and the intellectual property of the contestant submitting the item.
- Published within the stated time given. (1st January 2019 – 31st December 2023)
d) Time limits for Tourism Related Videos:
- Short Promo Video (less than15 minutes)
- TV Documentary / TV Magazine Programme (more than 15 minutes).
e) Photos must be included with Captions, Proof of Publishing and Image and Camera Use Details.
Judging Criteria
CREATIVITY & INNOVATION
EFFECTIVENESS
QUALITY & PROFESSIONALISM
Nomination has now closed
Best Tourism Events and Festivals ExperiencesTo recognize outstanding events and festivals within the tourism industry that offer exceptional and memorable experiences to attendees. These awards highlight events and festivals that contribute significantly to the tourism sector by attracting visitors, stimulating local economies, and promoting cultural exchange. The awards category divide into 02 subcategories:
Description
This award recognizes the outstanding leisure, arts, or cultural event held in Sarawak that creates exceptional and authentic experiences for attendees. The winning event will showcase authenticity, innovation, and a lasting positive impact, fostering deeper connections between visitors and the local community. It will contribute positively to Sarawak’s reputation as a vibrant and culturally rich destination.
Eligibility
This award is open to all publicly accessible events held in Sarawak within the calendar year of 2019 – 2023. The event can be a one-time event or a recurring event series.
Judging Criteria
EVENT EXPERIENCE & IMPACT
INNOVATION & SUSTAINABILITY
EVENT EXECUTION & PROMOTION
Nomination has now closed
Description
This award recognizes the outstanding sports tourism event held in Sarawak that showcases excellence and innovation, while attracting visitors and generating positive economic and social impact for the region. The winning event will contribute to promoting Sarawak as a vibrant destination for sports tourism. It will also foster connections between athletes, spectators, and the local community, leaving a lasting positive impression.
Eligibility
This award is open to all registered and publicly accessible sports tourism events held in Sarawak within the calendar year of 2019 – 2023. The event can be a one-time event or a recurring event series.
Judging Criteria
EVENT EXPERIENCE & IMPACT
INNOVATION & SUSTAINABILITY
EVENT EXECUTION & PROMOTION
Nomination has now closed
Special Hornbill AwardsThis award recognized the distinctive individual/organization’s contribution and professional achievement through major accomplishments toward Sarawak’s tourism industry. The awards category divide into 03 subcategories:
Description (Self or Public Nomination)
This award recognizes the outstanding tourism business or community-based initiative in Sarawak that demonstrates exceptional leadership in responsible tourism and sustainable practices. The winning entry will showcase a comprehensive approach, integrating environmental, economic, and social considerations into all aspects of its operations. It will inspire and motivate others in the tourism industry to adopt responsible practices, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient tourism sector in Sarawak.
Eligibility
This award is open to all registered and operational tourism businesses and community-based initiatives in Sarawak that have been actively operating within the calendar year of at least 2022 – 2023,
Judging Criteria
SUSTAINABILITY COMMITMENT AND IMPACT
LEADERSHIP AND INSPIRATION
ACHIEVEMENT
MISCELLANEOUS
Nomination has now closed
Description
This award recognized the distinctive individual / organization’s contribution and professional achievement through major accomplishments toward the Sarawak’s tourism industry.
Eligibility
Closed to public or self-nominations.
Judging Criteria
- Outstanding contribution towards the overall development of State’s tourism industry.
- Strong and on-going commitment by contributing their time and expertise to develop professionalism and a positive image of Sarawak tourism.
- Recognizing individuals or organizations that demonstrated resilience and adaptability in navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic, including adapting business models, operations and strategies to overcome obstacles.
Type of Nomination
Not Open to Self Nomination
Description
This award recognizes the exceptional efforts of individuals or organizations within the private sector in Sarawak that demonstrated outstanding resilience, innovation, and adaptation in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic (2020-2022). The winning entry will showcase its significant positive impact on the sustainability and growth of Sarawak’s tourism industry during a period of unprecedented challenges.
Eligibility
Closed to public or self-nominations.
Judging Criteria
- Outstanding contribution towards the overall development of State’s tourism industry.
- Strong and on-going commitment by contributing their time and expertise to develop professionalism and a positive image of Sarawak tourism.
- Recognizing individuals or organizations that demonstrated resilience and adaptability in navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic, including adapting business models, operations and strategies to overcome obstacles.
Type of Nomination
Not Open to Self Nomination
Best Tour Operator, Tours & Tourist GuideBest AccommodationBest Dining, Retail & Recreational ExperiencesBest Special Interest TourismBest Tour Operator, Tours & Tourist GuideBest AccommodationBest Dining, Retail & Recreational ExperiencesBest Special Interest TourismBest AttractionsBest Promotion and Social Media Contribution to the Tourism IndustryBest Tourism Events and Festivals ExperiencesSpecial Hornbill AwardsBest AttractionsBest Promotion and Social Media Contribution to the Tourism IndustryBest Tourism Events and Festivals ExperiencesSpecial Hornbill Awards1. PERIOD OF AWARDS
All submissions performance will be evaluated for their achievements within 2019/2023.
2. NOMINATION
- All categories of Sarawak Hornbill Tourism Awards 2019/2023 except for Hornbill Special Awards are open for nomination, either by self-nomination or submission by any members of the tourism industry.
- If there are no nominations received for any particular award (except for Hornbill Special Award), the Chairman of the Main Selection Committee may nominate any suitable nominees, as the winner for the uncontested award.
- Nominees will be responsible for the submission of relevant documents or collaterals in support of their nomination. Any incomplete submission may be rejected by the Committee.
- Nomination is open from 25th March – 30th April 2024. Any submissions after the closing date shall not be entertained.
3. OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM
- All nominations MUST use the official entry form. The official entry form can be found at https://shta.com.my/ under the Sarawak Hornbill Tourism Awards 2024.
- All completed official entry forms can be submitted:
(a) online https://shta.com.my/, or
(b) sent to Sarawak Tourism Federation by post or by hand.
The committee is not obliged to accept any entries received after the closing date. - All materials submitted will become the property of the Sarawak Tourism Federation.
4. GENERAL
- The committee has the right to amend the rules and regulations above.
- The committee report and selection process are HIGHLY CONFIDENTIAL.
- The committee reserves the right not to select a winner if it is deemed to be unsuitable.
- The committee decision is FINAL and NO APPEAL will be entertained.
AWARD PRIZES
1. Trophy
Award recipients will receive a customized trophy engraved with recipient’s name, awards category and year of the award.
2. Certificate
Award recipients will be given Certificate of Recognition signed by the Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Sarawak. Recipients for the Hornbill Special Award will be given Certificate of Recognition signed by the Premier of Sarawak.
3. Cash Incentives
- Award recipients will be given cash incentives amounting to RM5,000 each, except for Special Recognition recipients.
- Hornbill Special Award recipients will receive cash incentives amounting to RM10,000 each.
4. Marketing Incentives
All award recipients will be given Marketing Incentives amounting to RM3,000 each.