KOTA KINABALU: Tourists as well as local residents can now enjoy a new experience exploring Kota Kinabalu through the ‘KK Hop-On, Hop-Off City Tour Bus’ city tour service with its official launch on Friday (Sept 12).
The ‘hop on and off as you please’ concept on the double-decker bus service is aimed at providing a more flexible and enjoyable experience for visitors to see iconic locations around the city.
The bus route connects 17 places of interest, including traditional markets and historical landmarks, as well as the waterfront, popular dining spots and shopping zones.
The service was launched by Tourism, Culture and Environment Datuk Seri Christina Liew, who was represented by her Assistant Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, who is Sabah Tourism Board chairman.
In her speech read by Bangkuai, Liew said the services put Kota Kinabalu in the ranks or at par with major world cities such as London, Paris, and Kuala Lumpur, which offer similar services to their visitors.
She said the service highlights the culture and lifestyle of the locals in an easy and fun atmosphere.
"We already have island attractions, cultural villages, natural beauty and now we are adding a city experience that complements all of that. It is another way to showcase what we have to offer.
"At the same time, it contributes to sustainable urban mobility, promotes inclusive tourism and supports the local economy.
"This shows our commitment to continuously improve, renew and enhance Kota Kinabalu’s tourism offerings,” Liew said.
Liew said the implementation of the bus service was also seen as fitting with the Visit Malaysia Year 2026, which is coming soon.
Present at the event were Sabah Industrial Development Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, Kota Kinabalu Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Sabin Samitah and KK Hop-On Hop-Off Chairman Datuk Tan Kok Liang.
Tan said that two 60-seater double-decker buses operate the service and commentaries would be available in English, Malay, Mandarin, Tamil, Korean and Japanese.
It will operate from 9am to 6pm, with tickets priced at RM30 (adults) and RM20 (children aged 5 to 12) for Malaysians, and RM45 (adults) and RM20 (children) for international visitors.
