Kota Kinabalu: Sabah, renowned as the “Land Below the Wind”, is blessed with a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes, attracting tourists from around the globe.
However, outdated infrastructure – particularly issues related to immigration control and transport at Kota Kinabalu International Airport – is deterring visitors, hindering the growth of the local tourism industry and potentially tarnishing Sabah’s reputation ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.
As the first point of entry for foreign tourists into Sabah, Kota Kinabalu International Airport’s immigration process has long been criticised.
Due to a shortage of immigration officers and a lack of modern clearance facilities, long queues form at immigration counters whenever international flights arrive, forcing travellers to endure prolonged waiting times and significantly affecting their overall experience.
Goon Thien Shang, Special Affairs Officer to the Deputy Chief Minister, urged the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment (KePKAS) to work closely with the Immigration Department to address manpower and equipment shortages.
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