KOTA KINABALU, June 20— Sabah’s thriving tourism industry has emerged as a cornerstone of the state’s economy, generating over 380,000 jobs and contributing RM13.1 billion to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), according to Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
Speaking at the official launch of the ASEAN Travel Exchange (ATEX) 2025, the Chief Minister underscored the transformative role tourism has played in uplifting local communities, especially in rural areas.
“We have witnessed firsthand how tourism uplifts communities. We take pride in Sabah’s progress, particularly in the growth of community-based tourism,” Hajiji said during the event, held at a hotel in Kota Kinabalu.
Delivering the Chief Minister’s speech, Sabah Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Christina Liew highlighted that the state is home to a vibrant network of community-based tourism (CBT) operators. These initiatives, she noted, are largely led by local villagers and families who offer uniquely Sabahan experiences.
“Community-based tourism continues to expand across Sabah due to its immense potential to drive economic growth, particularly in rural districts,” she said.
In 2024 alone, CBT activities in 18 active districts generated RM7 million in state revenue—a figure expected to rise as more districts adopt similar models.
To support this growth, Hajiji announced that the state government is actively investing in key infrastructure projects, including upgrades to Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA), improved road networks to rural destinations, and enhanced digital platforms to promote and manage visitor experiences.
“We are laying the foundation for a resilient, future-ready tourism economy,” he said, adding that Sabah’s tourism strategy is built around green economy principles, digital transformation, and international event hosting capabilities.
The ATEX 2025 event, Hajiji added, reinforces Sabah’s ambitions to position itself as a regional tourism hub, leveraging the synergy between travel, hospitality, aviation, and sustainable development.
“ATEX 2025 serves as a powerful reminder of what the tourism ecosystem can achieve when aligned with innovation and sustainability,” he said.
With continued support and strategic planning, Sabah is poised to strengthen its status as a premier destination in the ASEAN region, both for travellers and for community-driven economic growth.
