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RANAU: Community-based tourism is gaining traction in Sabah’s remote areas with far flung Ulu Sugut becoming the latest to venture into such initiative.

Six villages along Sungai Sugut have introduced a tourism package designed to showcase the natural attractions of the respective areas while benefiting local communities.

On Friday, Assistant Tourism, Culture, and Environment cum Sabah Tourism Board Chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai launched the Longest River Expedition 40KM package at Batu Payung Campsite in Kampung Kepuakan.

“This initiative is more than just a recreational activity. It symbolises cooperation and unity among the communities involved.“Community-based tourism is gaining traction even in the most remote areas, proving that rural destinations can thrive with the right support and exposure,” he said.

The expedition route includes key tourism points such as Kampung Perancangan (the starting point for water rafting operated by Borneo Strider), Batu Payung Campsite in Kampung Kepuakan, Kanaan Santai View in Kampung Malinsau, Notukad River View Cabin and Tinuturu Kraft Sabah in Kampung Wayan, Puru Linosok Tinagas in Kampung Sinurai, and Thinkoyodon Tagal in Kampung Malinsau Darat.

Each village contributes unique tourism experiences to create a diverse and enriching package.

From accommodation providers and cultural performances to craft entrepreneurs, the initiative gives local communities greater exposure to visitors and boosts economic activity in these remote villages.

“This is real community-based tourism, where operators do not work in isolation but support one another as a collective effort to strengthen rural tourism.“Even in this programme, the organiser has engaged with local influencers from Ulu Sugut. This is a good approach as they can serve as ambassadors for their community and effectively showcase the area’s appeal,” added Joniston.

For example, the Batu Payung Campsite is four hours from Kota Kinabalu, including a one-and-a-half-hour drive on gravel roads.

Visitors participating in this longest river expedition package typically spend three to four days exploring the area and engaging in various activities. On visitor arrivals at rural destinations, Joniston said that the Sabah Tourism Board is prioritising rural tourism data collection to measure visitor impact.

“We need to understand the true impact of rural tourism. That’s why we are implementing a data collection system with Kiulu as a pilot project. “Having proper data allows us to make informed decisions and ensure that rural tourism remains beneficial for the communities,” he said, adding Ulu Sugut will be included in future efforts.