July 27, 2015
By Olivia Miwil
Picture by Lano Lan
TUARAN: A group of operators will be working
closely with villagers to boost tourism in Kiulu near here.
Kiulu Tourism Association president Dares Asaad said operators and locals would be able to achieve a
win-win situation both in earning incomes and sustaining the environment.
“As operators, we hope to educate locals on
how to develop their lands and rivers to meet tourists’ expectation.
“At the same time, villagers can also voice
out their concerns (on our operations) via the association,” he said.
Kiulu, a rural area located about 21 kilometres
from here, is gaining popularity among tourists for its adventurous activities such as
water rafting, kayaking, cycling, zip-lining, biking and off-road tours.
The attraction comprises 15 villages including Kampung Pukak and Kampung Rangalau.
Asaad said while some of those mentioned
activities had been carried out in the area for many years, there are concerns
that need to be discussed with stakeholders.
“For examples, the tagal practice (a
community-based fisheries system at the river) can be modified into a full tourism
product that comprises recreational and dining activities.
“It is the same for those interested to turn their lands into camping grounds.
"For instance, they should retain some nature elements instead of clearing everything to make way for the camping grounds.
Since the formation of the association last
month, Asaad said, they received good response from villagers as they had a
channel to voice their concerns.
He said hard work and perseverance were important for the plan to succeed.
The association receives support from Sabah Tourism Board to promote rural area as additional tourism
products in Sabah for visitors.
“The board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai,
who is also Kiulu assemblyman, has been supportive.
"He has provided assistance to the
association,” said Asaad.
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