KOTA KINABALU: International participants of a sailing event are impressed with Sabah’s Tuaran district, which is located about 40km from the state capital.
David Anderson from Australia said Tuaran was a “nice location along the coast with a secure and relaxing environment”.
“It is a low-key marina berth and a perfect place for getting boats serviced and ready before sailing further.
“We have also had the opportunity to explore nearby villages, and many sailors come here to see the countryside,” he said.
Anderson conveyed his appreciation to Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Assistant Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai during a welcoming event at the Anjung Gayang Jetty on Friday.
On Wednesday, a fleet of more than 20 yachts arrived in Tuaran as part of the annual Sail Malaysia Passage to the East Yacht Rally 2024 programme.
Besides Australia, the other participants are from New Zealand, the United States, Britain, Portugal, Hong Kong, South Africa, Indonesia, Thailand, Canada as well as other Malaysian states.
Like most participants, this is Anderson’s maiden visit to Sabah, and he is sailing with his wife and their two children, aged three and six. Anderson is also the group’s commodore.
Swiss sailor Stephan Chappuis, also travelling with his family, was equally positive about Tuaran, saying the district’s berthing spot offered excellent protection for boats against waves.
“Tuaran is a fantastic location for berthing and the countryside view is simply breathtaking.
“This is my first time in Sabah and I look forward to exploring the state,” he said, adding that Sabah is also an ideal family holiday destination.
Sail Malaysia managing director Sazli Kamal Basha said Tuaran’s protected harbour has enough natural depth to accommodate foreign yachts.
“This means Tuaran harbour has huge potential to become a main yachting hub in Borneo and a new tourism product for Sabah.
“To realise this potential, the harbour’s entry needs to be deepened and we are very certain that with the government’s plans to create a deeper entry, waterfront development and investment will flow into this area,” he added.
Bangkuai, who is also Sabah Tourism Board chairman, expressed the state’s commitment to promoting niche nautical tourism.
“Sabah is dedicated to enhancing the experience of sailors by offering unique berthing locations like Tuaran.
“We believe that developing this aspect of tourism adds significant value not only to the sailors, but also to Sabah and our local communities,” he said.
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