Kota Kinabalu: Sabah is taking strategic steps to prepare for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and Explore Sabah 2026/2027 by showcasing authentic, inclusive, and impactful tourism experiences, said Datuk Seri Christina Liew.
The State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister said among them is to focus on expanding economic opportunities for Community-Based Tourism (CBT) operators and introducing innovative approaches to elevate the sector.
“These forward-thinking efforts will not only enhance Sabah and Malaysia’s competitiveness but ensure we stay rooted in our cultural values and commitment to sustainability,” said Liew at the launch of the two-day CBT Conference and Expo 2025 at Suria Sabah.
She said this is a first scale event of its kind, reflecting the increasing dedication to tourism that uplifts and empowers local communities.
“It is a dynamic movement to preserves culture, protects nature and creates economic opportunities for local people.
“In a world searching for sustainable and inclusive solutions, Sabah is ready to lead by example,” said Liew.
Sabah Tourism Board (STB) Chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said the conference serves as a platform to further promote knowledge exchange among CBT practitioners, inspire local communities, and introduce global best practices that can be adapted.
STB Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit said many local tourism products are still in the early stages and require further support and capacity-building to grow.
“This signals a shift in the travel industry, where mass tourism is gradually giving way to a model that prioritises local community involvement,” he said.
He said the aim of CBT is to improve the socio economy of the rural areas as tourism is one of the three pillars under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) development plan, alongside agriculture and industry.
It also aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals of ending poverty, eradicating hunger, improving education and building sustainable community, he said.
“We cannot do it alone, but if we share one mission, one purpose, and if all stakeholders align, we believe we can turn these goals into reality,” he said.
He the CBT activities generated around RM6 million in income across 18 districts in 2023, and increased to RM7 million last year.
“Our goal is to push the income above the poverty line index,” he said. The conference features success stories and key experts from Thailand, Malaysia, Taiwan and Indonesia who will take part in knowledge-sharing and networking session aimed at strengthening local initiatives and illustrating best practices in CBT.
The event is co-organised by STB and United Nations Development Programme.
