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TAMBUNAN: Kolopis River Waterfall in Kampung Sunsuron has been identified as a promising eco-tourism and investment site following a recent inspection by Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey G. Kitingan, Member of Parliament for Keningau and State Assemblyman for Tambunan.

During the site visit, Dr Jeffrey highlighted the waterfall’s distinctive natural features and its potential to be developed into a premium, low-impact eco-tourism attraction in line with Sabah’s sustainable tourism strategy.

He said the relatively undiscovered site, which features two tiers of crystal-clear cascading waters, offers strong prospects if development is carried out in a structured and environmentally responsible manner.

“Kolopis River Waterfall is a natural asset with significant untapped potential. With proper planning and conservation-focused development, it can become a high-value eco-tourism product for Tambunan,” he said.

Located about 45 minutes to one hour from the nearest road access, the waterfall lies along the Mount Wakid trekking corridor, an area already frequented by hikers, adventure travellers and nature-based tourism operators. Its location presents opportunities to integrate trekking, nature experiences and community-based tourism offerings.

The inspection also assessed the site’s suitability for a proposed empurau fish aquaculture project, a high-value initiative expected to generate economic returns, employment opportunities and downstream benefits for the local community.

Dr Jeffrey emphasised that tourism development should go hand in hand with environmental conservation and inclusive economic growth to ensure long-term sustainability for investors, residents and the district.

The site inspection was coordinated by the Tambunan District Office and led by Assistant District Officer (Development) Willibrord Idang, with 32 officers and representatives from various technical departments and agencies taking part.

Dr Jeffrey called for a clear development framework and active public-sector facilitation to unlock the area’s tourism and investment potential.

“With its rich natural resources and geography, Tambunan has the capacity to become a catalyst for sustainable, inclusive and investment-ready tourism development in Sabah’s interior,” he said.