PENAMPANG: The district is gaining international attention for its rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and community-based tourism (CoBT) approach.
Penampang Tourism Association (PTA), led by Benjamin Golimbi is promoting it as one of Malaysia’s most promising emerging destinations for birdwatching and eco-tourism at the Global Bird Fair 2025.
With strong backing from the Sabah Tourism Board (STB) and inpartnership with the Sabah Birdwatchers Association, led by Ronald Pudin, PTA is promoting a network of birding hotspots across the district.
window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []};googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.defineSlot('/22826383987/dailyexpress_inline', [1, 1], 'gpt-passback').addService(googletag.pubads());googletag.enableServices();googletag.display('gpt-passback');});These include Sugud Eco Park, Sabah Parks’ Inobong and Buayan Substations, Gunung Alab, and the scenic Moyog River, all offering rich opportunities to spot Borneo’s rare and endemic bird species.
Penampang also champions its traditional Tagal system, a heritage-based river conservation practice that enhances both ecological sustainability and tourism appeal. Key Tagal sites include Tinopikon, Tolungan, Babagon, and stretches along the Moyog River.
For travellers seeking immersive experiences, Penampang features unique local accommodations such as Sinurambi Cottage in Inobong, perched with panoramic mountain views, and NUHU Resort in Sugud, nestled in tranquil forest surroundings.
Penampang also offers many unique homestays, giving visitors the chance to experience local culture, hospitality, and village life firsthand.
Adding to its growing list of attractions, Penampang is developing adventure tourism experiences including tandem paragliding in Sugud, offering breathtaking aerial views of the forested valleys, and white-water rafting in Rugading, perfect for thrill-seekers looking to explore the wild side of Borneo.
At Global Bird Fair 2025, PTA invites global birding tour operators, conservationists, and eco-investors to collaborate in shaping Penampang’s future as a leading nature, adventure, and culture-based destination in Southeast Asia.