A collaboration between Tawau Polytechnics and local communities is giving new life to Sabah’s community-based tourism while encouraging shared learning and sustainable growth.
Founder of Sail Malaysia, Datuk Seri Tengku Zainal Adlin Tengku Mahamood, said the state’s forests and seas remain its greatest assets and must be developed responsibly for long-term community benefit.
He said tourism should continue to generate opportunities that support village livelihoods and strengthen economic participation across Sabah.
Speaking at the closing of the Kampung Ecoventure Programme Series II 2025 at Pulau Buta Eco Tourism, he commended students and organisers for their strong partnership with the local community.
The initiative, which involved 37 Politeknik Tawau students living and working alongside villagers at Pulau Buta and Kampung Telisai, enabled them to design and carry out projects tied to homestays, food, and cultural tourism.
Programme Director Mohd Rafiq Dharma Nazrul said the experience forms part of the students’ assessment and helps them understand the realities of community-based tourism while developing practical skills.
Pulau Buta Eco Tourism Director Jessica Reyes @ Noraini Abdullah said the resort welcomes more young people to take up industrial training, noting that the programme has created a bridge between education and Sabah’s growing eco-tourism sector.
