KINABATANGAN: Sabah’s tourism industry continues to show positive growth, with demand remaining strong, especially from regional markets, despite ongoing global economic challenges.
State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said the current conflict in the Middle East has impacted the global economy, including rising operational costs in the aviation and transportation sectors.
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He noted that the situation has also led some airlines to adjust their capacity, resulting in short-term effects on flight connectivity to the State.
“However, demand for travel to Sabah remains strong, particularly from regional markets.
“The State Government through the Ministry, together with the Sabah Tourism Board, will continue to collaborate with airlines to strengthen connectivity,” he said in his speech at the 2026 Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration, here, Tuesday.
He added that Sabah remains optimistic in facing global challenges, as its tourism industry has proven to be highly resilient.
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He also said the recognition of Kinabatangan as a Unesco Biosphere Reserve on Sept 27, 2025, serves as a new catalyst for the State’s tourism sector.
The recognition is seen as a “game changer,” placing Kinabatangan alongside world-class ecological destinations.
“The State Government is committed to transforming the Kinabatangan corridor into a premium, world-class tourism destination by focusing on high-value tourism rather than visitor numbers.
“This status also opens up opportunities to attract international investments, particularly in the development of sustainable luxury ecotourism products,” he said.
Jafry stressed that environmental conservation will remain a priority, including the protection of sensitive areas such as the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary and wildlife migration routes.
He said iconic species such as the proboscis monkey and Borneo pygmy elephant are not only major tourist attractions but also natural heritage that must be preserved.
Kinabatangan is expected to become a key contributor to Sabah’s target of four million tourist arrivals in 2026, particularly from the European market, which prioritises sustainability and authentic experiences.
“All parties, including industry players and government agencies, must work together to ensure that the economic benefits from this recognition are shared by the people of Sabah,” he said.
Meanwhile, during a press conference at the same event, he addressed the issue of tourism overcrowding, or “over-tourism” in Semporna, which has prompted the Government to adopt a new approach focusing on high-impact and quality tourism.
Jafry said the approach is crucial to ensure the sustainability of Semporna’s tourism industry without compromising the environment and the well-being of local communities.
He added that the Government is now shifting its focus from quantity-based tourism to quality, including attracting higher-spending visitors.
“If possible, we want to focus on high-end tourism — prioritising quality over quantity,” he said.
On the condition of Jalan Jeroco which has frequently been raised by residents, Jafry acknowledged that it is poor, especially during rainy weather when heavy vehicles often get stuck.
He said the Federal Government has plans to upgrade the road, but the implementation timeline remains unclear.
“Some parts of the road have already been paved, but many sections are still pending. The extension is in the plan, but we do not yet know when it will be carried out,” he said.
