Kota Kinabalu: The State Government is formulating a comprehensive strategy to ensure Visit Sabah Year 2027 drives inclusive economic growth by benefiting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), tourism industry players, community-based tourism operators and local entrepreneurs.
Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Dr Andi Md Shamsureezal Mohd Sainal said the campaign was a strategic State Government agenda aimed at strengthening the tourism value chain beyond increasing tourist arrivals.
He said the focus would include sectors such as accommodation, transportation, food and beverage, handicrafts and community-based tourism products, while the Ministry continues engagement sessions with industry players and stakeholders to identify programmes and activities under the campaign.
"Although geopolitical conflicts have directly affected Sabah's tourism sector, the Ministry remains committed to leading the State Government's Visit Sabah Year agenda," he said when replying to Luyang Assemblyman Samuel Wong during question time at the State Legislative Assembly sitting on Wednesday.
Andi said the Sabah Tourism Board would intensify targeted promotion and marketing efforts, including promoting local tourism packages, expanding market access for small operators and providing support for SMEs and local communities, while Visit Sabah Year 2027 activities would be promoted under three themes: culture, adventure and nature.
