KOTA KINABALU: Collaboration among tourism industry players is essential to finding practical solutions that benefit all stakeholders while enhancing Sabah’s appeal as a travel destination, said Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
The Sabah Tourism Board (STB) chairman stressed that stronger partnerships between the aviation and hospitality sectors are crucial in attracting more visitors.
"It is vital for all industry players, including hoteliers and airlines, to coordinate efforts in creating a seamless and tourist-friendly experience. Effective partnerships will ensure that Sabah remains a top choice for travellers," Bangkuai said after a high-level discussion with AirAsia and the Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) Sabah/Labuan.
The meeting focused on ways the hotel industry could support better flight connectivity through joint initiatives with airlines.
Representatives from the Sabah Association of Tour and Travel Agents, the Malaysian Chinese Tourism Association, and the Sabah Tourist Guides Association were also present.
Bangkuai, who is state Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister, announced that STB will organise a broader dialogue involving hoteliers, transport providers, and government agencies to encourage greater collaboration.
"By bringing all stakeholders together, we can have inclusive discussions and work towards solutions that are beneficial for everyone," he said, adding that STB will facilitate the engagement.
Among those in attendance were STB chief executive officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit, AirAsia Group deputy chief executive officer (flight operations) Captain Datuk Chester Voo, AirAsia Malaysia chief executive officer Captain Datuk Fareh Mazputra, and MAH Sabah/Labuan chairman Hafizan Wong.
