Semporna-based dive operator can now offer travel bubble services

 By Olivia Miwil - March 25, 2021 @ 1:51pm

Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin (centre) pose for a photo after the launch of the International Seminar, Aspiring Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark at the Sabah International Convention centre. -NSTP/MOHD ADAM ARININ

KOTA KINABALU: A Semporna-based dive operator has become the second company approved to offer services in the state's travel bubble.

Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said the government has allowed Scuba Junkies to bring in tourists from other zones to go to Semporna.

"Scuba Junkie can have visitors from Kota Kinabalu to their place in Semporna as both are in different zones.

"But, they have to travel within the bubble by road with strict standard operating procedures," he said, adding unless the company could charter an entire flight, their customers should not mix with other passengers in a commercial flight."

He was speaking to reporters after the launch of the International Seminar, Aspiring Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark at the Sabah International Convention centre here.

Another operator that offers travel bubble services is the Sutera Harbour Resort in Kota Belud.

Jafry added the state government welcomed suggestions by the federal ministry to utilise the travel bubble concept for the safety of the people.

Sabah has now allowed inter-zone travel provided the people use vehicles from registered tour operators.

There are six zones in the state, with several adjacent districts grouped into a zone.

Earlier, he said should Sabah get its third Unesco recognition for the Kinabalu Geopark this year or early next year, it would definitely attract investors and visitors to the site.

The first World Heritage Site recognition was given to the Kinabalu Park in 2000 and the Crocker Range Biosphere Reserve was enlisted under the man and biosphere programme of Unesco in 2014.

"One of my ministry's current mandates is to strengthen Sabah's tourism industry, the primary national and state economic development and income-generating industry that attracts foreign investors.

"The Kinabalu Geopark being a National and a Unesco Global Geopark is at the right time for the right reasons," he said adding the spillover effect would give economic benefits to the local community.

Present were Jafry's Permanent Secretary Jamili Nais and Sabah Parks director Dr Maklarin Lakim.