Indonesia’s fast-growing tech company, Traveloka, seeks to collaborate with the Sabah Tourism Board (STB) to promote rural community tourism products globally.
During the UNWTO General Assembly, Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai discussed this potential partnership with Traveloka’s founder and vice president.
They aim to advance sustainable community tourism initiatives.
Traveloka, established in 2012, is a prominent Southeast Asian tech firm specializing in travel and lifestyle services.
They currently host over 150 community-based tourism operators on their platform.
Joniston has urged the Federation of Rural Tourism Association Sabah (FeRTAS) to identify 50 exemplary community tourism operators for the initial phase of collaboration.
The partnership aims to expand rural communities’ exposure to a wider audience through Traveloka’s platform, making Sabah’s rural experiences accessible to new tourists.
Joniston encourages rural tourism operators to maintain high standards and improve customer service.
He also commends Melangkap Tiong Tame Fish Eco-Tourism’s success and calls on other operators to follow its example.
Melangkap Tiong Eco-Tourism, one of Sabah’s top community-based tourism destinations, generates significant income, enabling financial support for villagers during difficult times.
This collaboration with Traveloka holds great potential for Sabah’s rural community tourism, expanding its reach and impact on local communities.
