KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is emerging as a leading destination for community-based tourism activities, with international and regional recognition highlighting the role of local communities as the main drivers of tourism experiences in rural areas.
Among the most frequently cited examples is KOPEL (Batu Puteh Community Ecotourism Cooperative Initiative), which has been recognised as one of the Best Tourism Villages by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), following its community-based and conservation-focused tourism approach.
In addition, several community-based tourism products in Sabah have received recognition under the Asean Tourism Standard, reflecting the state’s efforts to develop well-structured and sustainable rural tourism.
Since 2014, the Sabah Tourism Board has played a key role by providing training and skills development to communities, enabling them to manage their own destinations without relying entirely on external parties.
Communities in Kiulu and Kadamaian were among the earliest to receive training, as they served as pilot projects for rural and community-based tourism development in Sabah.
One of the community tourism operators in Kiulu, Lingga Eco Tourism in Kampung Lingga, is among five operators in Sabah that recently received the Asean Tourism Standard recognition at the national level in 2025.
Located at the foothills surrounded by lush greenery and the Kiulu River flowing nearby, Lingga Eco Tourism offers activities such as hiking to Dapako Hill and various enjoyable outdoor experiences, attracting both local and international tourists.
In addition to hiking, visitors can also take part in water activities such as water rafting, while enjoying the beauty of the natural surroundings.
The chairperson, Kait Lasangan (pic), explained that every eco-tourism activity is managed jointly with the community, with the local residents involved as tour guides, maintenance workers, and activity coordinators.
“Whether working as guides, participating in community clean-ups, or carrying out area maintenance, all work is paid and provides income for residents.
“Community involvement goes beyond guiding visitors; they also share village stories and daily life experiences, making the visitor experience more personal and truly authentic,” he said.
In conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), Sabah is opening its doors to domestic tourists to experience community-based tourism, nature, adventure, and local culture.
The state government has also designated Visit Sabah Year 2027 as a key tourism agenda, with a strong emphasis on tourism experiences rooted in community participation, nature, adventure, and local culture.
Kait believes that with continuous support from the government and relevant agencies, community eco-tourism initiatives can grow sustainably without compromising the interests of the local residents.
“When the community is involved and benefits directly, they will take better care of the area. This is not just about tourism, but about the sustainability and future of the village,” he said.
This approach creates a sustainable community tourism ecosystem with residents as the main drivers, while Sabah offers a variety of experiences tailored to visitors’ interests and preferences.
For those seeking clear rivers and natural camping sites, Kadamaian beauty will showcase the beauty of flowing rivers from the foothills of Mount Kinabalu and camping areas surrounded by nature.
For visitors wanting to experience the agricultural life and agro-tourism, inland areas such as Tambunan and Tenom provide opportunities to try gardening or harvesting local produce.
For nature and wildlife enthusiasts, KOPEL Kinabatangan offers visitors the chance to observe wildlife while supporting the local communities.
In the highland district of Kundasang, fresh, cool air and scenic vegetable farms await visitors seeking mountain experiences, with Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, located nearby.
Coastal life and local culture can be enjoyed in areas like Kota Marudu and Kudat, featuring tranquil beaches and the unique Rungus cultural heritage.
With such a wide range of experiences, community-based tourism in Sabah not only provides enjoyment for visitors but also supports sustainable development and the livelihoods of local communities.
