Kota Kinabalu: The Republic of Kazakhstan has expressed interest in establishing tourism cooperation with Sabah, drawn by the state’s global reputation for sustainable, eco, and community-based tourism.
This development follows a meeting between State Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment cum Sabah Tourism Board (STB) Chairman, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, and Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Bulat Sugurbayez, on Thursday.
The discussion focused on potential collaboration in tourism and cultural exchange, including joint promotions between STB and Kazakh tour operators.
Also present were Kazakh Embassy Second Secretary Akmaral Belgibekova, STB Deputy Chief Executive Officer Tay Shu Lan, and senior STB officials.
Sugurbayez revealed plans to bring the popular Kazakh Concert to Sabah in mid-October, with performances at key tourist locations. The events will be covered by Kazakhstan National TV to showcase Sabah to Kazakh audiences.
Both parties also explored opportunities for knowledge exchange in rural, nature-based, cultural, and adventure tourism. Sugurbayez highlighted Sabah’s appeal to Kazakh travellers due to its islands, diving, food, and cultural diversity.
Collaboration with Sabah’s rural communities was also discussed. Joniston noted that both Sabah and Kazakhstan, known for their nomadic village heritage, could learn from each other in developing rural tourism.
He welcomed the initiative and reaffirmed Sabah’s openness to partnerships that promote mutual tourism growth.
“Sabah’s strength lies in its rich biodiversity, unique cultural heritage, and successful community-based tourism initiatives,” said Joniston.
“We’re pleased to share our experiences and learn from others. Strengthening ties with Kazakhstan opens the door to greater cooperation.”From January to May 2025, 20,102 Kazakh nationals visited Malaysia, with many choosing Langkawi. This suggests strong potential for Sabah to attract more Kazakh visitors.
This development follows a meeting between State Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment cum Sabah Tourism Board (STB) Chairman, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, and Kazakhstan’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Bulat Sugurbayez, on Thursday.
The discussion focused on potential collaboration in tourism and cultural exchange, including joint promotions between STB and Kazakh tour operators.
Also present were Kazakh Embassy Second Secretary Akmaral Belgibekova, STB Deputy Chief Executive Officer Tay Shu Lan, and senior STB officials.
Sugurbayez revealed plans to bring the popular Kazakh Concert to Sabah in mid-October, with performances at key tourist locations. The events will be covered by Kazakhstan National TV to showcase Sabah to Kazakh audiences.
Both parties also explored opportunities for knowledge exchange in rural, nature-based, cultural, and adventure tourism. Sugurbayez highlighted Sabah’s appeal to Kazakh travellers due to its islands, diving, food, and cultural diversity.
Collaboration with Sabah’s rural communities was also discussed. Joniston noted that both Sabah and Kazakhstan, known for their nomadic village heritage, could learn from each other in developing rural tourism.
He welcomed the initiative and reaffirmed Sabah’s openness to partnerships that promote mutual tourism growth.
“Sabah’s strength lies in its rich biodiversity, unique cultural heritage, and successful community-based tourism initiatives,” said Joniston.
“We’re pleased to share our experiences and learn from others. Strengthening ties with Kazakhstan opens the door to greater cooperation.”From January to May 2025, 20,102 Kazakh nationals visited Malaysia, with many choosing Langkawi. This suggests strong potential for Sabah to attract more Kazakh visitors.
