In a recent interview, Joniston Bangkuai, Deputy Minister of Tourism for Sabah, passionately discussed the island's commitment to rebuilding tourism post-COVID. Emphasizing community-based tourism, Sabah aims to extend the benefits of the industry beyond urban areas to rural communities. The deputy minister highlighted an aggressive push for "Back to Nature" tourism, unveiling the global kabalo global jopa initiative covering 4,700 square kilometers. He underscored the positive impact of community-based tourism, not just as an economic driver but also as a force fostering cooperation, cultural understanding, and environmental conservation. Sabah's rich cultural tapestry and natural wonders, including Mount Kinabalu and top-tier dive spots, make it a compelling destination for those seeking an authentic and sustainable travel experience.  

  Sabah unveils the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark in a momentous event at the World Travel Market 2023 held at London's Excel. Representing the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Hon. Datuk Joniston Bangkuai describes the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark as a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and geological wonders, accentuating both its natural beauty and profound geological significance.   This achievement is incredibly significant for Sabah, as it became the third location in the world, after China and Korea, to attain the prestigious triple crown status. Sabah's two other UNESCO "crowns" include the Kinabalu Park, designated a World Heritage Site in December 2000, and the UNESCO Crocker Range Biosphere Reserve, declared in June 2014.   With this announcement, the global network of UNESCO Global Geoparks has grown to 195 sites across 48 countries, further solidifying Kinabalu Park's place among the world's most extraordinary natural and cultural wonders.   "It is important to note that Sabah Parks plays a crucial role in the protection, management and promotion of the geological heritage within the Kinabalu Geopark.   "This involves making these unique geological assets accessible to the public and ensuring long-term conservation, while actively contributes to the pursuit of UNESCO Global Geopark status.   This recognition underscores Sabah's unwavering commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable tourism practices.   "Sabah is not just a destination but a pledge to preserve the planet's natural wonders for future generations," Bangkuai emphasises.   The Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark, sprawling over 4,750 square kilometres and spanning three districts - Ranau, Kota Marudu, and Kota Belud, is home to numerous rural villages. These communities are paramount in preserving the region's unique culture and heritage.   With this recognition, Bangkuai expresses the hope of the Sabah state government to empower these rural communities by involving them in both conservation and the tourism industry.   "The World Travel Market 2023 is a significant moment for Sabah. It's our chance to showcase our latest UNESCO crown jewel to the world, emphasising its incredible geology, rich ecosystems, local communities, and the conservation work that earned it UNESCO recognition.   "This recognition as the 195th UNESCO Global Geopark solidifies Sabah's place on the world stage, and we invite the global travel and tourism community to experience the splendour of this remarkable geopark, contributing to its sustainable development and global awareness," he adds.   Key Highlights of the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark: 1. Geological Marvels: Kinabalu Park boasts unique geological formations, some dating back millions of years. Visitors will be captivated by stunning rock formations, caves, and intriguing landscapes. 2. Biodiversity: The geopark is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, some of which are endemic to the region. It's a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. 3. Cultural Richness: Indigenous communities, with their vibrant cultures and traditions, coexist harmoniously within the geopark. Visitors can engage with these communities and learn about their way of life. 4. Sustainable Tourism: The Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark exemplifies sustainable tourism practices, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy and learn from this unique site.   In addition to introducing the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark, Bangkuai is also launching a bird guidebook by Sabah's Wong Tsu Shi, titled "A Naturalist's Guide to Borneo's Birds (4th edition)."   This concise yet thorough guide provides insights into 280 bird species, the region's geography, climate, and top bird-watching spots. It also includes an updated checklist for avid birdwatchers.   The 4th edition features new species accounts and captivating photos, making it a must-have for bird enthusiasts, both experienced and beginners, eager to explore Borneo's remarkable birdlife.   Sabah Tourism Board encourages attendees at the World Travel Market 2023 to visit the Sabah stand, S9-420, to learn more about the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark and discover Sabah's natural and cultural wonders.

Malaysia Airlines has started ramping up flight frequencies on its flagship Kuala Lumpur-London route. It is now operating 11 times weekly and will expand to double daily service from July 1. It is part of a network-wide expansion ahead of Malaysia’s full border reopening. It is also reinstating scheduled services to Indian cities Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai and Hyderabad, and will double capacity to Bangkok to 14 flights a week.

Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob finally confirmed borders will fully reopen on April 1. The announcement is in line with government plans for the 'Transition to Endemic' phase. It allows quarantine-free entry for visitors fully vaccinated. It has-been welcomed by the tourism sector. "With less than a month to go, our members will offer various promotion packages for domestic and foreign destinations and I am confident that they can prepare various tour packages to market,” Malaysian Association of Tour Agency (MATA) president Datuk Mohd Khalid Harun said. "I also would like to advise all members to emphasise on health aspects for every tourist they bring in by preparing Covid-19 self-test kits to monitor the health levels," he added. The Prime Minister said current restrictions on business operating hours, capacity, and social distancing will be eased at the same time. Restrictions on interstate travel would also be relaxed.  

Malaysia's borders will be opening again soon. Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob confirmed a decision has been made to reopen. A reopening date could be announced later this week. The PM stated migrant Malaysians will be able to return before the Idul Fitri holidays in May. The government is working on vaccinated overland travel lanes with Brunei and Thailand, and will expand its VTL with Singapore. "These routes are expected to aid our mutual economic recovery from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly in reviving the ailing tourism industry,” said Transport Minister Dr Wee Ka Siong. VTLs with Thailand will also include air routes to Bangkok and Phuket from Kuala Lumpur.

Malaysia Airlines is restarting flights to Australia. With borders now open down under, the airline is flying twice weekly to Perth and five times a week to Sydney from Kuala Lumpur. In April, frequencies to Perth will rise to five times a week and seven times to Sydney, the carrier said. It comes as long-time hold-out state Western Australia opened its borders.

Malaysia based Mayflower Holidays announced the expansion of its collaboration with Trip Affiliates Network (TA Network) for its online hotel direct booking services for agents, wholesalers and corporates. Trip Affiliates will provide a dynamic content management system for its retail customers. TA Network brings together Asia Pacific’s travel wholesalers, operators and destination management companies onto a single open travel ecosystem. Established in 1960, MFH caters to both individuals and corporate clients in Malaysia and beyond. MFH will also be expanding its wholesale business with online travel channels connected via TA Network. TA Network offers its content management system with easily customisable promotion pages, fully integrated via TA Network multi-product booking engines. MFH will also be expanding its wholesale business with online travel channels connected via the TA Network. In addition, TA Network’s digital payment solutions (BorderXP) offers clients a virtual card or local fund transfer service to process payments to minimize payment fees. Jean Tung, Head of Business, Mayflower Holidays said: “We are pleased to expand our partnership with TA Network which will enable MFH to increase direct booking of dynamic rates with our hotel partners, as well as give us easy and quick access to hotels who have engaged TA Network for their B2B direct booking services.” “Through this collaboration, we will also be able to work closer with our hotels for tactical promotion rates and offer value-added products.”

The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) warns Malaysia will miss out on the tourism recovery as ASEAN neighbours start opening up again. MATTA calls for a gradual reopening by starting with allowing fully vaccinated travellers from across Southeast Asia. MATTA President, Tan Kok Liang, says inbound tourism from ASEAN countries makes up 70% of all foreign arrivals. "To make sure the reopening of borders will not affect our Covid-19 prevention measures, we can carry out risk evaluation and reciprocate with countries that low risk," MATTA said.   Read full story

  There are many reasons why you should visit Sabah in Malaysia on your future getaways. Besides admiring the majestic mountains and beautiful beaches, there’s more to Sabah than meets the eye, including outdoor activities, cultural tours, and delicious halal food. To inspire your next trip to Sabah when the time is right, here are some experiences that await you!  

1. Admire bucket list-worthy attractions

Credit: Siti Nadzirah   Ask any locals about their favourite attraction in Sabah and they would tell you all about Mount Kinabalu. Known as Malaysia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, adventure seekers would spend more than a day hiking to the peak of Borneo’s highest mountain. While hiking, look out for pitcher plants.   If you’re up for more adventure, trek to Maliau Basin, also described as the Lost World of Sabah. Circled by pristine rainforest, Maliau Basin is a unique basin-shaped water catchment that flows to the Maliau River and Kinabatangan River. Some tours will take you to the seven-tier Maliau waterfall and we heard that it’s absolutely breathtaking!  

2. Get ready for a world class diving experience

  You don’t have to travel far to immerse yourself in a world class diving experience because Sabah has it all. Whether you choose snorkelling or scuba diving, there are many amazing diving sites in Sabah including the nearby Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, and the islands in the east coast of Sabah such as Lankayan island in Sandakan and Sipadan Island in Semporna. So put your gears on and dive amid the beautiful corals, sea turtles, barracudas, clown fishes and sometimes you can find the rare and even endemic species of underwater life.  

3. Brace yourself for unforgettable outdoor adventures

Credit: John Kong   Another reason you’ll want to visit Sabah in Malaysia is the adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities. For adventure seekers who enjoy white water rafting, come and navigate through the rapids of Kiulu River. Suitable for beginners, you only need some arm strength and a lot of team effort to make it to the end. Kiulu River also has a double zipline that you can try right after!   Credit: G Woolley   For ziplining with a different view, head over to Coral Flyer Zipline, the world’s longest island-to-island zipline that stretches from Sapi to Gaya Island. Suitable for kids, it’s a fun activity that you can do with your family. Besides that, there are other adventurous things to do in Sabah including spelunking at Gomantong Caves, bird watching at Tabin Wildlife Reserve, signing up for a river cruise along Kinabatangan River, and braving new heights at MountainTorq known as the world’s highest Via Ferrata at 3,776 above sea level.  

4. Plan a romantic honeymoon in a floating villa

  Ideal for honeymooners, Sabah is brimming with stunning resorts that are perfect for romantic getaways. Surrounded by crystal clear waters and clear skies, get ready for a memorable vacation in accommodations like Gaya Island Resort and Bunga Raya Resort in Gaya Island, Mabul Water Bungalow in Mabul Island, Nusakuya Resort located off the coast of Semporna, Mataking Island and Sipadan Kapalai Dive Resort in Sipadan Island. You may need to save up to spend a night in these beautiful floating villas, but the view is absolutely worth it.  

5. See more wildlife encounters than just Orangutans

Credit: Heinz Rickers   There are many opportunities to experience wildlife encounters in Sabah! The century-old pristine rainforest is home to various species including the endangered Proboscis monkey and Sun Bear, the world’s smallest bear.   If you want to get up close to the famous Orangutans, visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sandakan thatcares for young orphaned orangutans before releasing them into the wild. Visitors are not allowed to touch the orangutans, but you can still say hello from the walkway during their daily feeding sessions.   Credit: Soo Wen Yi   Malaysia is one of the two destinations in the world where you can spot Pygmy Elephants, so take the chance to see them in a Kinabatangan River Cruise! Along the second longest river in Malaysia, you’ll find these gentle giants drinking water and cooling off on a hot day. It’s such a fascinating experience that you can’t get it anywhere else!  

6. Immerse yourself in the cultural side of Sabah

Credit: Lim Sheng Haw   Sabah is a melting pot of cultures that primarily consists of indigenous ethnic groups. Their unique tradition and language are widely practiced today, so take the opportunity to get to know its history and culture. Visit Mari Mari Cultural Village in Kota Kinabalu to know more about the five main ethnic groups in Sabah namely Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau, and Murut. Each group offers unique experiences in the cultural village, from bamboo cooking in the Dusun house to learning traditional craft in the Rungus house.   Credit: TsenLip Kai   There’s also the Linangkit Cultural Village in Tuaran where you can discover the social and cultural heritage of the Lotud people. After immersing yourself in a guided tour around the village, you can try on their traditional costume, learn handicrafts, and uncover the best ways to pluck a tapioca.     Don’t forget to try yummy traditional food in Sabah like hinava (sliced mackerel fish with chili, onion, ginger and lime juice) and latok (seaweed with cili padi, lime and sambal belacan). It’s absolutely unique!  

7. Savour delicious halal food from local eateries and street markets

  Finding halal food in Sabah is easy too! You can have a taste of deep-fried spring chicken from Sabah’s halal-certified fast food chain, Borenos Fried Chicken or fresh seafood from the halal-certified Thien Thien Restaurant. To experience the nightlife in Kota Kinabalu, look out for Muslim-owned stalls at Night Food Market on Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens to enjoy grilled fishes and lobsters that are straight from the ocean.   Whether you’re excited for a hiking adventure at Mount Kinabalu or romantic getaway in a floating villa, there are many reasons why you should travel to Sabah in Malaysia!Add this destination to your bucket list and let’s visit Sabah when the time is right.

  Kadamaian folks regain their footing with renewed determination to promote their destinations and community-based tourism (CBT) initiatives.   After a two-year Covid hiatus, they are back stronger than ever, resuming their tourism operations with better facilities in place for the comfort of visitors.   Since interstate travel was allowed in October last year and the Covid-19 swab test rule for Sabah was repealed last month, Kadamaian has observed a steady increase in tourist visits.   Recently, Sabah Tourism Board (STB) chief executive officer Noredah Othman visited five tourism spots namely Porohon Garden, Eco-Tourism Tagal Kampung Talungan, Eco-Tourism Kampung Tambulion, Eco-Tourism Kalangadanku, and Karanahan View.   Porohon Garden and Karanahan View are privately owned attractions, with the others being managed by the local community.   Noredah was accompanied by Federation of Rural Tourism Association Sabah (FERTAS) president and Kadamaian Tourism Association (KATA) president Walter Kandayon, as well as representatives from the STB’s Product Division, Marketing Division, and Business Event Division.   The official visit was part of a product update on rural tourism and CBT, as well as community engagement, among others.   “Kadamaian has the potential to develop into a world-class tourist destination. It has a wealth of natural charms, making it a great place for tourists from all over the world to come and see.   “We admire the spirit of Kadamaian people in their efforts to empower themselves through rural tourism activities,” said Noredah.   Kadamaian is one of Sabah’s fastest developing rural tourism attractions, with the goal of being a world-class rural tourism destination by 2025.   In January 2019, Kadamaian received the ASEAN Community Based Tourism Standard 2019-2021 at the Asean Tourism Ministers’ Conference in Hanoi, Vietnam.   Noredah also applauded the rural community for their grit and determination in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic and the obstacles they have faced in recent years.   “At STB, we will continue to engage with the community to ensure they have the skills and abilities needed to reach the world-class status as well as to assist them in obtaining necessary funds to enable them to improve their facilities,” she added.   During the visit, the STB team also inspected upgraded facilities funded by Sabah New Deal grants at Porohon Garden, Eco-Tourism Tagal Kampung Talungan, and Karanahan View.

  The Tuaran Crocodile Farm collaborates with two local creative and heritage organisations to offer future visitors a hands-on cultural learning experience.   The farm plans to transform its unused longhouse space within the compound into Momogun Heritage Lab, featuring exhibitions based on the diversity of major ethnic cultural heritage in Sabah.   The Muzium Lotud Borneo and Chanteek Borneo will provide exhibition materials for the collaborative efforts.   Tuaran Crocodile Farm manager Engalbert Awing said the longhouse was used to showcase traditional dance performances to visitors as a side activity until tourism was shut down due to the pandemic.   He described the Momogun Heritage Lab as a family-friendly activity centre that offers culturally-based fun activities that children will enjoy such as weaving and beading, among others.   The collaborative agreement between the three parties was signed on Thursday, witnessed by state Tourism, Culture, and Environment Assistant Minister cum Sabah Tourism Board (STB) chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.   The agreement was signed by Tuaran Crocodile Farm director Chai Wee Ying; Muzium Lotud Borneo founder Pediman Jabau; and Chanteek Borneo founder Anne Antah.   Since tourism activities resumed operations, the crocodile farm received 600 visitors daily, especially during the school holidays. Their visitors consist of locals, tourists from the peninsula, and expatriates.   Meanwhile, Joniston lauded the initiative and the group’s efforts to incorporate educational activities related to cultural heritage.   “We must promote educational tourism because it is the most effective way to learn about other cultures. Hands-on learning activities will add value to an already well-known attraction.   “The Sabah Tourism Board encourages tourism operators to diversify or expand their products to meet the needs of all customers, including children, as family travel is one of the growing markets in the tourism industry.   “Hence, there is a constant need to develop tourism products that encourage family bonding and knowledge sharing to help create the ideal vacation memories,” he said.   Such educational tourism, according to Joniston, is also beneficial for students who go on field trips to gain a new perspective outside of the classroom setting.