KOTA KINABALU: Sabah youths should tap into business and job opportunities offered by rural tourism, Sabah Tourism Board (STB) chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai
He also urged rural communities to keep developing their areas with tourism in mind for long-term prosperity building.
Citing Kiulu in Tuaran district near here as an example, he said 400 full-time and part-time jobs were created with the opening of more than 80 tourism-related businesses in the area.
Bangkuai said this when speaking at the Holistic Service Experience Programme closing held at Riverbug Base Camp and The Adventure Centre in Kiulu on Sunday (Sept 22).
The event organised by North Borneo University College (NBUC) aimed to equip students with essential practical skills and leadership needed for the hospitality industry. NBUC vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Azimuddin Bahari was also present.
"Make full use of the knowledge on tourism and hospitality you have acquired in your studies by venturing into the tourism business," said Bangkuai, who is Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment.
Bangkuai said Kiulu has become a popular destination for both tourists and international students, particularly for summer camps.
He also encouraged local educational institutions and students to consider Kiulu for team-building and personal development activities.
Joniston added such programmes like this provide valuable academic and hands-on experiences while exposing students to Sabah’s growing tourism sector.
