Sabah is gearing up for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and Explore Sabah 2026/2027 by promoting authentic, inclusive, and sustainable tourism experiences.
Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew said the focus is on boosting community-based tourism (CBT) and adopting innovative strategies to benefit local communities.
At the launch of the two-day (June 28-29) CBT Conference and Expo 2025, Liew said the event marks Sabah’s growing commitment to tourism that empowers and uplifts communities while preserving culture and nature.
STB Chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai highlighted the event as a platform for knowledge exchange, while CEO Julinus Jeffery Jimit noted the need to support early-stage tourism products.
Tourism, a key pillar under the Sabah Maju Jaya development plan, aims to improve rural socio-economies and aligns with global Sustainable Development Goals.
In 2023, CBT activities generated RM6 million across 18 districts, rising to RM7 million in 2024.
The conference includes experts from Thailand, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Indonesia, and is co-organised by Sabah Tourism Board and the United Nations Development Programme.
