Kota Kinabalu: The Republic of Korea’s Consul, Choi Bongkyu, expressed confidence that ongoing collaboration between Malaysia and South Korea can help ensure a more sustainable tourism industry in Sabah.
He said the State’s natural beauty, including its famed sunsets, continues to attract international visitors despite fluctuations in tourist numbers caused by currency exchange rates.
“Normally, around 200,000 Koreans visit Sabah each year, but last year the number dropped to about 150,000.
“With the strengthening of the Malaysian ringgit, the Korean won has weakened, and tourist arrivals are expected to fall further to around 125,000.
“If the won strengthens, we anticipate more visitors returning,” he said following a courtesy visit to Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman at Istana Seri Kinabalu, Thursday (pic).
Choi hoped Sabah would remain a preferred destination for South Koreans, with several airlines continuing direct flights between Korea and Sabah to facilitate travel.
The visit marked his first meeting with the State Governor since his appointment as Consul of the Republic of Korea in Sabah last November.
