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KOTA KINABALU – The Sabah Tourism Board (STB) is pushing for community-based tourism (CBT) to prevent rural-urban migration in the state.
STB chief executive officer Noredah Othman said that rural areas in Sabah have ample economic opportunities for young people that can be realised through CBT, which could provide them a sustainable source of income.
“One of STB’s objectives is to encourage the youth to work in the community and that they do not need to leave their village to look for income.
“Jobs are everywhere. What matters is effort.
“Rural areas are rich with natural resources and enchanting surroundings. Hence, young people can find jobs and opportunities in CBT,” she said.
Noredah said this during talks organised by the Universiti Malaysia Sabah’s Centre for Sustainable Society Engagement, today.
The talks, moderated by the centre’s deputy director Dr Elia Godoong, focus on the opportunities of rural communities in the eco-tourism industry.
The engagement also discussed the migration of young people from rural to urban settings, leaving behind older folks to manage life in the village.
Noredah stressed that STB is ever ready to assist rural communities intending to venture into CBT by providing the necessary support, training, and funds.
She said STB works with the district tourism association to develop CBT, adding that 26 districts have established tourism committees to help develop and sustain tourist activities in their respective areas.
She said youth should maintain their legacy and continue living in their village to promote their kampung, rural destinations, and the state as a whole.
“The rural areas are a beautiful tourism destination, and eco-tourism is linked to nature and community.
“That’s why CBT is important, as it encourages the youth to continuously conserve and preserve our natural surroundings, and to appreciate their villages,” she said.
Meanwhile, Noredah also said STB is open to collaborating with any universities for research initiatives, especially in rural tourism.
“We recently provided grants for research teams or individuals who want to conduct research for us.
“Such collaboration is important to enable us to use their data for our strategic planning,” she added. – The Vibes, January 13, 2022