Bangkuai chairing the Sabah rural tourism joint steering committee meeting.
KOTA KINABALU: Twelve agro-based products are set to highlight Sabah as a thriving rural tourism hub.
These unique products, carefully selected for their sustainable practices, are located in Kota Belud (Mount Kinabalu Coffee and Sunduan Pisompuruan Everything Pineapple); Kudat (Tampakan Fish Farm, and Gombizau Honey Bee Farm); and Kota Marudu (Saujana Hill).
Others are in Lahad Datu (Irunji Agro Tourism); Beaufort (Selagon Agro Farm); and Tenom (Sabah Agriculture Park, Padas Farmstay, Yong Farmstay, Yit Foh Tenom Coffee, and Fatt Choi Coffee); and Ranau (Desa Cattle Dairy Farm).
These were identified by a state rural tourism joint steering committee involving five state ministries.
Presided by Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, the committee comprises representatives from the Ministries of Tourism, Culture, and Environment; Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry; Industrial Development; Rural Development; and Local Government and Housing.
It aims to foster collaboration among the ministries and focus on devising effective strategies to boost the visibility of Sabah's rural tourism products and enhance the overall visitor experience.
Among the topics deliberated during the meeting was addressing infrastructure needs such as roads and unlicensed homestays, particularly in rural areas.
The committee emphasised the importance of promoting regulated lodging options to provide tourists with safe and authentic experiences while benefiting local hosts and communities.
Bangkuai, who is also state tourism assistant minister, stressed that the success of agro-tourism relies on a concerted effort from all involved ministries, each leveraging its unique capabilities to empower rural communities and create sustainable growth opportunities.
He expressed confidence that Sabah, with the united support of the ministries, is poised to share its rich agricultural heritage with the world, solidifying its position as a prime agro-based tourism destination.
To ensure these unique destinations receive the attention they deserve, the committee called for improved amenities and road infrastructure, making access easier for local and international visitors.
"Sabah's agro-based tourism journey has now set its course towards a future of sustainable growth, cultural preservation, and community empowerment," said Bangkuai, in a statement here on Tuesday (July 25).
"Through collaborative efforts and careful planning, Sabah will undoubtedly flourish as a remarkable and responsible destination, providing visitors with memorable experiences and positively impacting the lives of local communities," he added.
