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KINABATANGAN: Sabah’s tourism remains resilient despite global economic pressures, with strong demand from regional markets.

Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin highlighted the impact of airline cost increases and short-term connectivity issues but said the state government is working with airlines to maintain links.

He called UNESCO’s 2025 recognition of Kinabatangan as a Biosphere Reserve a “game changer,” boosting sustainable luxury tourism while protecting wildlife like proboscis monkeys and Bornean pygmy elephants.

Jafry also addressed over-tourism in Semporna, promoting a shift toward high-quality, high-spending visitors, and acknowledged ongoing federal plans to upgrade the problematic Jalan Jeroco.