KOTA KINABALU: The remote Ulu Sugut area in Sabah's Ranau district is the latest to adopt community-based tourism, highlighting the potential of rural destinations to flourish with the right support.
Located about 180km from the state capital, six villages near the Sugut river have launched a tourism package to showcase their natural attractions while benefiting local communities.
Sabah Tourism, Culture, and Environment assistant minister and Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai stated that this initiative demonstrates the growing appeal of community-based tourism.
He made this comment after launching the Longest River Expedition 40KM package at Batu Payung Campsite in Kampung Kepuakan on Friday (Feb 14).
"This initiative is more than just a recreational activity. It symbolises cooperation and unity among the communities involved," he said.
"Community-based tourism is gaining traction even in the most remote areas, proving that rural destinations can thrive with the right support and exposure," Bangkuai added.
The expedition route includes several tourism spots, such as Kampung Perancangan (starting point for water rafting by Borneo Strider), Batu Payung Campsite, Kanaan Santai View in Kampung Malinsau, Notukad River View Cabin, Tinuturu Kraft Sabah in Kampung Wayan, Puru Linosok Tinagas in Kampung Sinurai, and Thinkoyodon Tagal in Kampung Malinsau Darat.
Each village offers unique tourism experiences, creating a diverse and enriching package.
The initiative involves accommodation providers, cultural performances, and craft entrepreneurs, boosting economic activity and giving local communities more exposure to visitors.
Bangkuai emphasised that this represents true community-based tourism, where operators collaborate to strengthen rural tourism.
"The organiser has engaged local influencers from Ulu Sugut, who can serve as ambassadors and showcase the area’s appeal," he said.
For example, Batu Payung Campsite is four hours from Kota Kinabalu, including a one-and-a-half-hour drive on gravel roads.
Visitors typically spend three to four days on this longest river expedition package, exploring and participating in various activities with the local communities.
Regarding visitor arrivals at rural destinations, Bangkuai mentioned that the STB prioritises rural tourism data collection to assess visitor impact.
He noted the importance of understanding rural tourism's impact, which is why the STB is implementing a data collection system starting with a pilot project in Kiulu.
"Having proper data allows us to make informed decisions and ensure that rural tourism remains beneficial for the communities," he said, adding that Ulu Sugut will be included in future efforts.
