Kota Kinabalu, Jan 25: In a significant move to develop rural tourism, the Sabah Tourism Board (STB) is seeking a sustainable partnership with the federal Economy Ministry.
STB Chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai expressed the board’s vision of this strategic alliance as a key driver for economic empowerment in rural communities, particularly in combating poverty.
This initiative gained momentum on Wednesday when Deputy Economy Minister Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib visited Kampung Poturidong, Kiulu.
She experienced the community-driven Tagal Eco-Tourism project, demonstrating the potential of such initiatives in rural economic upliftment.
The Tagal system, an indigenous practice of temporarily banning fishing to rejuvenate riverine resources, was highlighted as a prime example of local community empowerment and a unique tourist attraction.
Accompanied by Joniston, also the Kiulu Assemblyman, and 30 participants from the Social Development Goal (SDG) Summit in Kota Kinabalu, Hanifah’s visit symbolised a growing recognition of the value of rural tourism.
During discussions, Hanifah lauded the tagal system for its potential in attracting tourists, emphasizing Sabah’s need to leverage its unspoiled natural beauty and pristine rivers.
Addressing the necessities for rural tourism, Hanifah stressed the importance of enhancing basic amenities for visitors.
She confirmed her Ministry’s commitment to exploring avenues for further development of rural tourism in Sabah.
Meanwhile, Joniston expressed hopes that STB’s comprehensive rural tourism plans would be presented to the Ministry.
|He emphasized the aim of aligning strategies to ensure a win-win scenario, promoting responsible tourism while enhancing the socio-economic landscape of the state.
In a testament to the ongoing efforts, Hanifah inspected the construction of a bridge during her visit, a project set to benefit 3,000 residents across several villages upon completion.
This development marks a significant step towards improving rural infrastructure, further bolstering the region’s tourism potential.
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