The State Government will coordinate closely with the Ministry of Local Government and relevant authorities through a Special Task Force on Semporna Tourism Industry Monitoring to ensure proper governance, effective enforcement and orderly tourism development in Semporna.
The State Government will also continue to work with the Federal Government, including the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Living Costs (MDTLC), to ensure clear governance, coordinated enforcement and sustainable tourism development.
“Our approach is evidence-based and solution-driven.
“Tourism must not evolve into an enclave economy where profits leave but local benefits remain minimal.
“Sabah must remain competitive globally while ensuring Sabahans are the primary beneficiaries in their own state,” said Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin.
He was responding to a statement by Domestic Trade and Living Costs Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali on reports that 81 accommodation premises in Semporna are largely operated by external companies.
Jafry said the matter must be assessed comprehensively based on facts and Sabah’s long-term economic interests.
He added that issues related to illegal business activities and operations fall largely under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Local Government.
His ministry has established the task force involving relevant state agencies, local authorities, industry players and community representatives.
“The primary objective of this task force is to resolve Semporna’s tourism issues comprehensively, not reactively, through a systemic approach that aligns roles, jurisdiction and enforcement among relevant agencies,” he said.
Jafry said Sabah welcomes foreign investment, as global networks and market access are important drivers of tourism growth.
However, he said such investment must deliver clear benefits to Sabah by strengthening local participation, creating jobs for Sabahans and ensuring meaningful economic spillover to the community.
