KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is consistently working hard to promote the state as a premier tourism destination, says Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said the state government is intensifying various inclusive tourism initiatives and programmes, particularly to expand the tourism promotion network and increase airline accessibility to Sabah.
"We want to offer the most interesting tourism experience for both domestic and international tourists," he said during the launch of the traditional native market, Tamu Besar Kota Belud on Saturday (Nov 2).
Hajiji said that Sabah Tourism Board statistics showed that the number of tourist arrivals from January to August is about 2.1 million people, with 867,231 international tourists and 1.2 million domestic tourists.
"This shows the great potential of Sabah as a tourist destination, and I am confident that with the strategic planning in place, the number of tourist arrivals in Sabah will continue to record an encouraging increase," he added.
Hajiji then said that the traditional Kota Belud Tamu Besar has been in existence for well over a century and is also a unique attraction that reflects the beauty and uniqueness of various local cultures.
He added that the state government will continue to support and develop the potential of every district in Sabah, including socio-economic development and tourism, to promote the unique community culture.
"There is no doubt that the annual hosting of this Kota Belud Tamu Besar plays a significant role in attracting tourists, in addition to promoting the beauty of local culture.
"This is also a symbol of unity that has existed for generations, where people from various ethnicities like the Bajau, Kadazandusun, Iranun, and Chinese continue to be seen today," he said, urging people to collaborate with the government in its development agenda.
Sabah Yang DiPertua Negeri Tun Juhar Mahiruddin launched the Kota Belud Tamu Besar 2024, which featured cultural performances, traditional sports, exhibitions, and the sale of handicraft products, among other activities.
Hajiji noted that Kota Belud is a destination that offers a variety of tourism experiences, including adventure, recreation, culture, and nature, with more than 30 interesting tourist locations to explore, including islands and rivers.
"Kota Belud Tamu is not just a trading centre but also a place for manufacturing and selling various local products, such as agricultural produce, traditional food, handicrafts, swords, musical instruments, and traditional clothing.
"Here, visitors can get quality goods at reasonable prices," he said.
