Kota Kinabalu: The prevailing fuel shortage as a result of the US-Iran War is impacting the tourism sector in the east coast of Sabah in varying degrees, a Daily Express random survey revealed.
General Manager of Jeti Pelancong Semporna, Kwan Yaw Fu has asked the Government to provide a fuel subsidy specifically for the tourism sector for a win-win situation.
“I appeal to the government to seriously consider the request of tour operators plying the route from Semporna to Sipadan, Kapalai and Mabul. They (tour operators) need support to sustain their daily operations for tourism growth. Mind you, tourists are bringing revenue to Sabah and boosting the State’s economy,” he said.
According to Kwan, during the peak season, there are more than 100 fibreglass boats of various sizes and engine horsepower ferrying tourists from the mainland to popular offshore islands. Bigger boats that can accommodate 40 people require big engines with 250 or 350 horsepower.
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