TAWAU: Efforts to elevate Tawau in social media beyond merely being a transit point for tourists from China are necessary to ensure the district does not lag behind as a tourist destination.
Social media platforms are regarded as effective tools capable of influencing the preferences of Chinese tourists, currently the largest group of international visitors to Sabah.
Democratic Action Party (DAP) Central Executive Committee member Philip Yap Wui Lip, who is also a Tawau Municipal Council member said: “Last year, 1.2 million international tourists were reported to have visited Sabah, and of this number, nearly 70,000 Chinese tourists landed at Tawau Airport (LTT),” he told a press conference held in conjunction with the distribution of 500 posters containing information on interesting attractions and tourism products in Tawau to Chinese tourists.
He noted these Chinese tourists often continue their journey directly to Semporna, famous for its beautiful islands and maritime attractions.
“We hope the posters will be shared by tourists on their social media platforms and, in turn, influence their networks to take an interest in visiting Tawau,” he said.
Philip said DAP Tawau remains committed to supporting the local tourism industry, especially promoting local cuisines that are well-known and compatible with the tastes of tourists from mainland China.
He noted that Tawau has long been recognised as a “food paradise destination” with strong potential to attract visitors eager to sample a variety of delicious local dishes.
“With the ongoing Tawau airport upgrade expected to be completed within the next three years, we must be prepared to accommodate a larger influx of tourists, especially with more international flights being added.
He hoped cooperation between the Federal and State Governments would continue to be strengthened, especially to stimulate development and economic growth, including the tourism sector in Sabah, particularly in Tawau.