Kota Kinabalu: The launch of the KK Hop-On Hop-Off (Hoho) City Tour marks a new milestone for Sabah’s tourism industry, said State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew.
She said the service would not only provide visitors with a new way to explore Kota Kinabalu but also strengthen the city’s reputation as a premier destination.
In her speech delivered by her Assistant Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai during the official launch at KK Sentral, Friday, she said:“The Hoho service aligns with our mission to diversify tourism products and elevate visitor experiences.
“It also reflects Sabah’s commitment to sustainable, innovative and people-centred tourism growth,” Speaking to the media after the launch, Joniston said the new service is expected to be a popular attraction not only among international visitors but also locals.
“The tour route has been carefully designed to showcase iconic buildings and landmarks, including Yayasan Sabah, the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), popular shopping areas and the city’s vibrant markets,” said the Sabah Tourism Board Chairman.
City Hall (DBKK) Mayor Datuk Seri Sabin Samitah described the launch as a proud day for Kota Kinabalu, which has recorded the highest number of tourist arrivals in Borneo.
“Our vision is to make Kota Kinabalu a world-class and sustainable destination, where every journey tells the story of our people, heritage and natural beauty,” he said.
He said the Hoho service will provide a safe, reliable and eco-friendly way for tourists to move around the city while linking attractions, businesses and communities.
“This is more than a transportation service, it is about delivering meaningful experiences while supporting the local community,” he said.
Sabin also thanked the Ministry, DBKK and industry partners for their collaboration, saying the launch was proof of what could be achieved when government, industry and the community worked hand-in-hand.
KK Hoho Chairman Datuk Tan Kok Liang said the service will operate with two double-decker buses, each with a 60-seat capacity and elevated views of the city.
He said the tour would cover 17 stops, beginning at KK Sentral before making its way through Oceanus Mall, Handicraft Market, Suria Sabah Mall, the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), Likas Bay, Anjung Selera, Yayasan Sabah and the City Mosque (Masjid Bandaraya).
Other highlights include the Atkinson Clock Tower, Sabah Museum, Sabah Art Gallery, KK Chocolate House, Tanjung Aru Beach, Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort (Star), Sutera Harbour Resort and finally Imago Mall, before returning to KK Sentral.
“Commentary is available in six languages, including English, Malay, Mandarin, Tamil, Korean and Japanese with more to be added later,” Tan said.
He said the tickets can be purchased online using QR codes or at designated counters, with payment via cash also accepted to cater for international tourists.
“Operating hours are from 9am to 6pm daily. Visitors can hop on or hop off at any of the 17 stops using the same ticket throughout the day, giving them the freedom to explore at their own pace,” he said.
Tan highlighted that the service is designed to benefit local businesses as well as visitors.
“This will definitely bring business to every stop. It will become an iconic attraction for Kota Kinabalu and help raise the city’s profile internationally,” he said.
Also present were Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, Deputy Plantation Industries and Commodities Minister cum Kota Kinabalu MP Datuk Chan Foong Hin, Sandakan MP cum Commercial Vehicle Licensing Board (CVLB) Chairwoman Vivian Wong, DBKK Director General of Planning and Development Datuk Sr Lifred Wong, Permanent Secretary for the Local Government and Housing Ministry Datuk Dr Jamili Nais, KK Hoho Director Loo Kok Seong, Malaysian Association of Tour & Travel Agents (Matta) Deputy President Sheikh Awadh.
The KK Hoho officially begins operations this month and is expected to become a signature feature of the city’s tourism landscape.
