Indian golfers have discovered the allure of Sabah, seeing it as more than just a golfing destination.
A group of five golf enthusiasts arrived in the state and were immediately captivated by the breathtaking scenery and warm hospitality of Kota Kinabalu.
Organized by Tourism Malaysia, their four-day familiarization tour aims to showcase the diverse attractions of Sabah beyond its renowned golf courses.
During a welcoming dinner hosted by Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, the group shared their perspective on Sabah’s potential to attract visitors from India beyond golfers.
Romit Bose, India’s leading golf educator, praised the availability of golf courses within resorts, excellent hotel facilities, and the region’s ideal weather for year-round golfing.
He suggested that Sabah could become a tournament destination, attracting hundreds of junior golfers and their families.
Mahender Pal Khanna, managing director of Diplomatic Travels, recognized Sabah’s stunning natural beauty and top-notch wellness spas, making it an appealing destination for Indian tourists.
He also highlighted the wedding industry as an area for potential growth and emphasized the importance of direct flights from India to facilitate travel.
The group discussed the possibility of future chartered flights from India to Sabah, further enhancing accessibility for travelers.
This trip was made possible following a successful meeting between golf operators and Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, at the South Asia Travel and Tourism Exchange (SATTE) 2023 in India.
Khairul expressed excitement about positioning Sabah as a premier golf destination for Indian travelers through collaborations and improved connectivity.
During their familiarization trip, the group will have the opportunity to play golf at prestigious courses such as Sutera Harbour Golf and Country Club, Dalit Bay Golf and Country Club, and inspect the Nexus Golf Karambunai Resort.
