Sabah Tourism Board (STB) Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jeffrey Jimit reaffirmed the board’s commitment to close collaboration with the Malaysian Chinese Tourism Association (MCTA) during the Sabah Chapter’s 2026 Anniversary and Chinese New Year fundraising dinner on Friday.
The event brought together industry leaders, government representatives, and international travel partners to celebrate achievements and strengthen ties within Sabah’s tourism sector.
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“STB values our partnership with MCTA for its practical, results-driven impact. Together, we connect industry players and translate market opportunities into real business outcomes,” Julinus said.
He said this collaboration allows MCTA members and overseas travel agents to experience Sabah beyond brochures, building confidence in promoting our natural landscapes, cultural diversity, and warm hospitality.
Julinus highlighted that sustainable inbound tourism growth depends on strong industry coordination, credible tourism products, and shared market intelligence, and expressed optimism about further deepening cooperation to open new markets and strengthen existing ones.
MCTA National President Patrick Law congratulated the Sabah Chapter on its progress, describing the anniversary dinner as a reflection of unity, continuity, and professionalism.
“The Sabah Chapter has steadily grown, establishing new offices, appointing a full-time secretary, and expanding its reach across East Malaysia to serve Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan.
“These initiatives reflect the dedication of its members and mark a new phase toward greater organisational maturity,” he said.
Patrick also emphasised Sabah’s international appeal from Mount Kinabalu and its islands to diving destinations and cultural heritage, positioning the state strongly for inbound and outbound tourism growth.
Organising Chairman Tommy Wong expressed appreciation for the support of the Sabah Chapter president, committee members, sponsors, and partners.
He said the dinner symbolised unity within the industry and offered an opportunity to plan strategically for the year ahead.
“By strengthening cooperation and developing innovative tourism products, we aim to position Sabah as a world-class destination,” Wong said, noting Tourism Malaysia’s contribution in sponsoring the 2026 Truly Visit Malaysia Year mascot.
The dinner featured cultural performances and a symbolic tossing of yee sang, reflecting prosperity, good fortune, and shared goals for Sabah’s tourism sector in the Year of the Horse.
Leaders and partners reaffirmed their commitment to innovation, regional cooperation, and sustainable growth, marking the dinner as both a celebration of past achievements and a platform for future collaboration.
