The RM24 million embellishment project of the river banks from Kampung Boyan to Fort Margherita across the Kuching Waterfront would be completed by the year-end.

Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah of Tourism, Art and Culture of Sarawak said the project's completion would encourage the public and tourists to visit the area around the historic fort.

"Once completed, the area of Fort Margherita will be open to the public and visitors. We hope the people of Kuching and visitors will be proud to visit the fort and avoid committing vandalism," he said.

He said the project that started in 2017 included work to build waterfalls, to build a footpath from Kampung Boyan to the Darul Hana Bridge and to upgrade Pangkalan Sapi.

"This includes the construction of a traditional English Tea House for the people to have afternoon tea in the area," he said, adding that it was inspired by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Abdul Karim said that this project had to be implemented since the surrounding areas of the fort were illuminated at night despite being adjacent to the Darul Hana Fountain and the magnificent legislative complex of Sarawak State.