KOTA KINABALU: Two new initiatives have been put forward to boost local tourism in Kiulu, says assemblyman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
One is a plan to designate it as a tourism township and the other is to establish a related cooperative at SMK Tun Fuad Stephens.
There are an estimated 80 tourism operators in the area, Bangkuai noted.
He added that the tourism cooperative would allow the school to benefit from the influx of international students attending summer camps.
"We already have a tourism information centre here, so it is only natural to elevate Kiulu into a township focused on tourism," Bangkuai said at a Madani community programme in the town on Monday (Oct 14).
The Sabah Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister said the cooperative would help the school play a key role in the local tourism scene through activities for visiting students.
"It would give students practical exposure to the industry, allowing them to interact with international visitors and tap into Kiulu's growing reputation as a summer camp hotspot.
"This will not only generate financial opportunities but also help students develop crucial skills in hospitality and management, enriching their educational experience," he added.
Around 300 people, including SMK Tun Fuad Stephens students, participated in Monday's community work event, aimed at cleaning up and enhancing the local environment.
Separately, Kiulu is set for an infrastructure upgrade with the approval of a vehicle bridge connecting the town to nearby Bayag.
"The Public Works Department (JKR) informed me that the Federal Government has given the green light for the bridge, which will ease traffic congestion in Kiulu.
"This project will also open up opportunities for the construction of facilities such as a police station, fire station, affordable housing, and more shophouses," Bangkuai said, adding that construction is expected to commence early next year.
