KOTA KINABALU: April 30, 2026
Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said his ministry welcomes constructive suggestions from honourable members to ensure continued growth of the tourism sector, in response to issues raised by assemblymen.
He said this in his winding-up speech at the Sabah Legislative Assembly sitting, where he responded to concerns and proposals raised during the debate.
N.29 Pantai Manis, N.67 Balung, N.1 Banggi
Proposals include developing Papar Old Town as a heritage hub, promoting tagal systems in Balung Kokos, and developing Bukit Sinambung and Gua Kosimpul in Balambangan as tourism destinations.
The ministry acknowledges these areas’ strong potential and will further evaluate them, recommending coordination through District Tourism Action Councils.
N.58 Lamag & N.61 Segama (Wildlife Conflict)
The ministry takes seriously human-wildlife conflicts, particularly crocodile and elephant incidents.
In 2025, 11 fatalities and three injuries due to crocodile attacks were recorded in Sabah.
Crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) are protected under state law and international conventions. Unlicensed hunting is not permitted due to conservation requirements.
Measures include:
- Integrated operations
- Controlled hunting licences
- Awareness programmes
- Scientific research
- Pilot projects
For elephant conflicts, strategies include GPS tracking, electric fencing, community ranger teams and habitat management initiatives.
N.16 Karambunai
Pulau Sepanggar is being studied for development as an adventure tourism destination, with community participation emphasised.
N.21 Luyang
The ministry agrees on the need to diversify and modernise tourism products, which is a key agenda under the 13th Malaysia Plan.
N.56 Tanjung Papat (Sandakan)
Sandakan remains a key eco-tourism and heritage destination, supported by:
- International tourism fairs
- Familiarisation trips
- Digital campaigns
- Major events (e.g. ANZAC Day, Sepilok Jazz Festival)
- Strategic partnerships
Infrastructure upgrades amounting to RM2.15 million (2024) and RM5.5 million (2025) have been allocated.
N.64 Sulabayan & N.66 Bugaya (Semporna Issues)
Out of 190 accommodation premises in Semporna:
- 46 are licensed
- 62 are in progress
- 82 remain unlicensed
Only licensed premises are promoted to protect industry integrity and prevent revenue leakage.
Further action will be determined at Cabinet level.
N.69 Sri Tanjong
The ministry welcomes the extension of Visit Malaysia Year to 2027 and will consider proposals such as hotel vouchers to boost domestic tourism.
