News
New director for Tourism Malaysia
Datuk Dr Ammar Abd Ghapar has been appointed as the new director general of the Malaysian Tourism Promotion Board (Tourism Malaysia), effective from 12 April 2023. He has replaced Datuk Zainuddin Abdul Wahab, who retired on 10 April 2023 after reaching the compulsory retirement age. Ammar has been serving in Tourism Malaysia for 35 years…
Sabah is among the top 3 tour destinations in Malaysia
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah, Terengganu, and Kedah have emerged as the top three hotspots for travelers looking for adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences, according to the recently concluded Matta Fair. Despite its logistical challenges, Sabah stole the show as the most sought-after destination by exhibitors and visitors alike. With 19 National Tourism Organisations, 13 state tourism…
Kiulu countryside schools has potential for eco-tourism
KIULU: Schools in the Kiulu countryside are set apart from others due to the unique opportunities presented by the area’s growing prominence as a tourist destination. Most primary schools, such as SK Kitapol, SK Mantob, SK Pahu, and SK Malangang, to name a few, are situated along the river and are surrounded by a lush…
Mazu statue decision pending
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew has stated that the decision regarding the completion of the Mazu statue in Kudat, which was halted midway 17 years ago, is in the hands of the state government. The minister has visited the site and met with locals who hold varying opinions on…
High airfares need to be addressed to make sure Sabah’s tourism continues to thrive
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s tourism industry may suffer from higher airfares during festive seasons. Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew said with an increase in flight frequencies to Sabah, airline companies should keep their fares affordable, so as not to deter tourists from visiting Sabah. Liew has received complaints from East Malaysians who…
Sabah to be promoted via fun travel activities book
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah film production company, Vinoun Films, has created an educational colouring guidebook for Rajawali Homes in Kota Marudu. The book features fun activities and attractions along the way from Kota Belud to Kudat division area. The complimentary activity book includes two main bird characters, Kondiu (eagle) and Odu (grandmother) dressed in traditional Kadazandusun…
Tham Yau Kong honoured by Australia for death march work
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah adventure tour guide Tham Yau Kong, has been awarded an honorary Medal of the Order of Australia for his work in keeping alive the memory of the sacrifice of Australian prisoners of war who died during the Sandakan-Ranau death march. Tham has led politicians including Australia former prime minister Scott Morrison, diplomats…
Kg Natai has promising potential for tourism activities
KOTA KINABALU: Kampung Natai in Telipok has been identified as a promising site for community-based tourism. The 101-hectare land is located within the Crocker range biosphere reserve, just 36km away from Kota Kinabalu. During a community-based tourism advocacy programme at Tamaza ACV, City Hall’s tourism director, Fauziaton Ag Samad, recommended that relevant departments and the…
Sabah tourism industry could benefit from revival of Mazu project
KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) has expressed its support for the proposed revival of the stalled Mazu (Goddess of the Sea) project in Kudat. The association believes the project would benefit Sabah’s tourism industry and improve the livelihood of many in Kudat, which is currently ranked among Sabah’s poorest…
Mazu statue can draw tourists to Sabah
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam has expressed support for the proposed construction of a 32m statue of Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea, in Kudat. He believes that it would bring economic benefits and attract tourists to the state. The project, which was first proposed in 2005 by former…