The Sabah Tourist Association (STA) has identified the next two years as crucial for rebuilding confidence in the tourism industry. The newly elected Chairman for 2023-2025 term, Melanie Chu, highlighted the association’s commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism practices, aiming to create a resilient tourism sector in Sabah. The diverse lineup of stakeholders, including destination…
Tabin wildlife reserve in Lahad Datu is currently experiencing a unique event as over 300 Borneo pygmy elephants have gathered near the Tabin Wildlife Resort. This phenomenon occurs once every 10 years. The reserve spans 300,000 acres, making it Malaysia’s largest wildlife reserve. “The reason for the elephants’ visit remains uncertain, but it could be…
Sabah welcomes Shanghai Airlines on July 2, as the second China-based airline to resume direct flights into Kota Kinabalu, enhancing air connectivity and the tourism industry. Assistant Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, greeted the inaugural flight’s 159 passengers, emphasizing the importance of this development for the tourism sector. The collaboration between Sabah…
Sabah Parks has clarified that the mesmerizing ‘golden halo’ phenomenon observed on Mount Kinabalu was a result of sunlight refraction, resembling the traditional headgear called ‘sigah’ or ‘sigar’ worn by the ethnic Dusun community. The park authorities addressed this on their official Facebook page on June 15, dismissing speculations about photo manipulation. The captivating image,…
The Taiwan Tourism Bureau aims to attract Muslim travellers from Malaysia and Brunei, which have large Muslim populations. Malaysia and Brunei respectively having 61 and 67 percent of Muslim, the combined potential reaches a significant 20 million individuals. They are focusing on integrating Muslim travel resources and have performed well in the Global Muslim Travel…
Kiulu Farmstay, a community-based tourism project in Kiulu, has transitioned from private tour company management to local community control, empowering the communities and promoting sustainable tourism. The transfer of ownership from Borneo Eco Tours to the villagers was marked by a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signing. Sabah Tourism Board officials, including chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai,…
The Asia Dive Expo (ADEX) Sabah Ocean Partnership Summit, will attempt to set a world record for the longest ghost net cleanup in Kota Kinabalu. The event aims to raise awareness about the importance of protecting Sabah’s marine environment. ADEX Sabah will take place from August 18 to 20 at the Sabah International Convention Center…
Police in Semporna have advised tourists to respect local laws, customs, and culture, following the arrest of a foreign tourist who was found posing naked on the balcony of a hotel room facing the road. The District Police Chief, Mohd Farhan Lee Abdullah, expressed appreciation for the public’s cooperation in maintaining harmony and safety in…
The MATTA Fair Sabah concluded with a remarkable sales turnover of over RM25 million. The event, held at the Sabah International Convention Centre from May 19 to 21, attracted more than 15,000 visitors over three days. MATTA Sabah chairman Lawrence Chin, expressed satisfaction with the fair and highlighted the participation of 50 regional and international…
Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai emphasized the importance of responsible tourism in riverfront areas. He called on stakeholders to prioritize safety, quality, and continuous skills development. During the launch of the Pertubuhan Arus Deras Sabah or ARUSDESA and Pulou Kelapa Heritage Tourism and Recreation Centre, Joniston stressed the need for visitor…