SANDAKAN: Sustainable tourism can no longer be treated as a marketing slogan as environmental protection and the well-being of Sabah's local communities must be prioritised, says Datuk Jafry Ariffin.
The state Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister said Sabah's standing as a world-class ecotourism destination depended on how responsibly its natural attractions were managed.
He said Sabah's East Coast, particularly Sandakan, Kinabatangan, Tawau, Semporna and Lahad Datu, was home to some of the state's most valuable natural attractions, drawing visitors from around the world.
"Tourism cannot thrive in isolation from environment and community well-being.
"If we are to secure our position as a world-class eco-tourism destination, we must ensure our destinations are managed sustainably, ethically, and strategically," he said when launching a Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) course here on Tuesday (Oct 13).
He highlighted Danum Valley, Sipadan Island Park and the wildlife corridors along the Kinabatangan River as examples of natural treasures that required responsible management.
"Sustainable tourism is no longer a niche choice or a marketing slogan – it is the baseline requirement for the future of travel," he said.
Jafry urged tourism operators, regulators and destination managers to reassess their practices and translate international sustainability standards into concrete action plans.
The three-day programme brings together 32 representatives from government agencies, private destination management organisations and conservation bodies, including Sabah Parks, the state Wildlife Department and Forestry Department.
Participants will also visit Kopel in Kampung Batu Puteh, Kinabatangan, to learn how community-led ecotourism supports local livelihoods while conserving biodiversity.
