KOTA KINABALU: According to Sandakan’s MP, Vivian Wong, constant efforts should be made to showcase the town as a diverse Sabah destination that is not to be missed.
The second-largest town in the state, according to her, has a lot to offer visitors in the form of food, nature, and culture, so it shouldn’t be ignored while promoting travel.
Visitors to Sandakan are well-known for their ecotourism, particularly on Selingan Island, Sepilok, and Kinabatangan.
But the city itself has a lot to offer as well. It has a historical cultural legacy that is not extensively advertised or (included in travel packages),” she remarked on Sunday, August 11, following the conclusion of an art market festival in Sandakan.
She mentioned that tourists might go on a food trail and sample the town’s well-known sweet “UFO tart,” buttery roti kahwin, and fresh seafood, as well as wander along the city’s heritage path, Trig Hill, and Sandakan Market.
She urged travel agents and other business owners to increase their marketing efforts by bringing in new products and activities that entice travellers to stay longer in Sandakan.
She gave several examples, mentioning that Sandakan has picturesque pathways for picture ops and community-based tourist programs.
In April, it was also given the national ASEAN Clean Tourist City Standards 2024–2026 award and an action plan up to 2030 was created to promote tourism in the district, she continued.
“Well done and congrats to everyone who keeps thinking of ways to bring in more visitors to Sandakan,” she exclaimed.
Regarding the art festival, Wong stated that one aspect of the district’s tourism offers was the promotion of arts and culture.
“We will be able to expand the range of our products and services for travellers and bring more tourists to Sandakan with continued collaboration between the private sector and government agencies,” she stated – The Star
