KENINGAU: The success of the tourism industry does not rely solely on the beauty of destinations or attractions but also on the strength and spirit of the communities behind them.
Keningau Tourism and Cultural Association Chairman Rafie Robert said sustainable tourism centres must be driven by local communities who not only act as observers but also as key movers in promoting the district’s heritage and identity.
“Keningau holds great potential in terms of culture, heritage and natural beauty. Through events like this, we aim to create opportunities for local communities to participate actively while introducing our tourism potential to a higher level,” he said when officiating the Tourism Fest 2025 at Keningau Tourism Information Centre, here, last Thursday.
The festival, held from 7am to 4pm, featured a variety of engaging and interactive activities, including a children’s colouring contest, a children’s fashion competition, arm-wrestling matches and an eSports tournament, all of which received an enthusiastic response from the local community.
Highlights of the event included exhibitions and sales of tourism products, handicrafts and locally made goods that showcased the unique culture and creativity of the people of Keningau.
Rafie also presented prizes to the competition winners and expressed his appreciation to all parties involved in making the event a success. He emphasised that Tourism Fest 2025 was not merely a platform for entertainment or promotion, but a reflection of community spirit and pride in local heritage.
“When the community stands at the forefront of tourism, they are not only showcasing their homeland to the world – they are preserving the soul and stories behind every destination,” he said.
Tourism Fest 2025 was the result of a strategic collaboration between Keningau Tourism and Cultural Association, Geomatika College Keningau Sabah and the Keningau Community Tourism Association, with support from various local agencies.
This annual programme serves not only to promote local tourism products and destinations but also to strengthen the community’s economy, foster unity and empower the people as the main driving force behind regional tourism development.
With its people- and culture-centred approach, Tourism Fest 2025 once again proves that the true strength of Keningau’s tourism lies not only in its scenic landscapes but in the hands and hearts of the community that brings them to life.
