TAWAU: Modern camping enthusiasts, including tactical and glamping concepts, have been urged to protect the reputation of these popular trends from negative elements such as substance abuse and casual sex.
Youth, Sports Development and Creative Economy Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan said maintaining a positive image is crucial to ensure these outdoor group activities continue to develop constructively while contributing to economic development and strengthening community and family bonds.
“We hope organisers will remain vigilant and ensure all programme guidelines comply with existing national laws,” he told reporters after launching the Tawau Camping Festival 3.0 at the Batu Payung beach.
The festival was organised by the Persatuan Komuniti Perkhemahan, Taktikal dan Glamping Tawau.
Nizam said he is optimistic about the positive aspects of these activities, particularly in strengthening participants’ spiritual development and team spirit.
He advised organisers to obtain approval from local authorities or police beforehand and encouraged them to operate under registered bodies to ensure smooth programme implementation.
“The Ministry fully supports activities that contribute to human capital development and creative economy empowerment, while enhancing participants’ skills through various activities provided,” said the Apas Assemblyman.
He said the presence of outdoor activity enthusiasts can bring economic benefits to local residents, especially in tourism zones such as the Batu Payung and Tinagat coastal areas.
Nizam called for extensive promotion to attract international participants from Indonesia, the Philippines and Europe to introduce Tawau as a unique and attractive outdoor camping destination.
He also suggested organisers not focus solely on coastal locations but explore the potential of highland areas such as Bukit Tawau and Bukit Pancang as alternative sites.
Nizam commended the festival organisers for incorporating spiritual elements to strengthen participants’ inner well-being.
The festival saw participation from 84 tents featuring tactical and glamping concepts, with communities from Tawau, Kunak, Semporna, Lahad Datu and the Peninsula taking part.
