Sabah is being positioned as an ideal destination for “healing trips,” camping, and outdoor activities, according to the Sabah Tourism Board (STB). STB chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai highlighted these key attractions during the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) fair in Kuala Lumpur. He noted the global trend of travellers seeking holistic adventure experiences along with relaxation and fun. Sabah has embraced this trend by branding itself as a “healing destination” with a focus on camping, Bangkuai mentioned at the event held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec).
During the fair, Bangkuai emphasized the multitude of camping destinations in Sabah, showcasing various camping attractions and adventure spots across the state. The Sabah Tourism, Culture, and Environment Assistant Minister listed places like Kadamaian, Kundasang, Kokol Hill, beaches in Kudat, and rural areas such as the Rundum Highlands in Tenom as prime locations for these activities. Each location offers unique landscapes, views, and cultures, making Sabah a versatile destination catering to diverse interests.
Furthermore, Bangkuai highlighted that most of these camping sites are supported by community-based tourism, demonstrating the success of this initiative. A total of 22 travel and tour agents from Sabah participated in the 54th edition of MATTA Fair, which took place from March 22 to March 24. The Sabah Tourism Board led the Sabah zone with 10 booths, offering a travel rebate ‘Token Rehat Minda’ worth up to RM150 for a single receipt from a purchased Sabah tour package.
In addition, STB invited Glamping_KK, a Sabah-based camping gear rental provider, to showcase their offerings to potential Sabah visitors. Local Sabah content creators and adventure enthusiasts, @sesat_in_Malaysia and @rosesabahlady, were also present to share their experiences with visitors during the interactive Locco Ajak Borak session at the MATTA Fair. Bangkuai mentioned that visitors to the Sabah Pavilion booths could enjoy various organized activities, such as the Photowall Challenge, Catch and Release, and Wheel of Fortune, while participating in on-site consumer surveys throughout the event.
Bangkuai stressed the importance of the MATTA Fair as a significant domestic consumer travel fair in Malaysia, stating that STB would remain actively present. He also expressed the board’s commitment to studying travel preferences within the domestic market to keep destinations exciting. With the alluring destinations spanning from mountain highs to ocean depths, Sabah is poised to captivate many visitors, Bangkuai added. The event was also attended by STB Chief Executive Officer, Julinus Jeffery Jimit.
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