Kota Kinabalu: Sabah’s tourism sector should be judged by the quality of experiences it offers and the benefits it brings to local communities, rather than visitor numbers alone, said Matta Sabah Chapter Chairman Alex Chong.
“As we move towards Visit Sabah Year 2027, we need to continue developing quality tourism products and experiences while ensuring that tourism benefits reach more Sabahans,” he said.
He said this in his welcoming remarks at the Matta Fair Sabah opening ceremony held at the Sabah International Convention Centre here on Saturday.
The ceremony was officiated by State Tourism, Culture and Environment Assistant Minister Dr Andi Md Shamsureezal Mohd Sainal.
“Our tourism future should not be measured only by how many people visit Sabah but also by the quality of the experiences we create, the opportunities we generate for local businesses and communities, and how responsibly we manage our natural and cultural assets,” Alex said.
In an earlier statement, Alex said community involvement in tourism would grow in importance as Sabah prepared for Visit Sabah Year 2027.
“Travel agencies and tour operators could introduce visitors to authentic local experiences and encourage travel outside the usual tourist centres.
“This would create opportunities for local guides, homestay operators, transport providers, food businesses, handicraft producers and community-run tourism enterprises,” he said.
He said closer cooperation between the government, industry players and communities could help develop tourism products that were commercially viable while remaining responsible and sustainable.
