KOTA KINABALU: Tourism facilities, including jetties and staff quarters on islands around the state capital, need immediate maintenance to ensure the safety of all users, says newly-appointed state Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin.
He said several jetties in island areas clearly need urgent attention to ensure the comfort and safety of tourists and others who use them.
"Several facilities we visited require immediate maintenance and upgrades. Safety is a priority, and situations like this cannot be allowed to continue," he said after conducting inspections at several major tourism locations on Sunday (Dec 7).
The sites included Jesselton Point, Sabah Parks Jetty, and the South Jetty owned by Suria Capital, which is currently under construction with an estimated cost of RM20mil.
Jafry also inspected Sulug Island, including the Sabah Parks staff quarters, which he found to be unsatisfactory, dilapidated, and no longer suitable for the rangers to live in.
He said this issue involves the safety and welfare of those who play an important role in safeguarding the state’s tourism conservation areas.
"I want immediate action. Staff working on the islands need to have safe and conducive accommodation," he said, adding that follow-up action at ministry level will include a plan for a long-term solution.
