By Olivia Miwil - August 5, 2023 @ 11:16pm
SANDAKAN: Sabah's tourism sector has shown robust growth.
State Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said for the first five months of this year, Sabah recorded 988,680 domestic and international tourist arrivals, representing an increase of about 77.1 per cent compared to 558,169 visitors for the same period last year.
As of Aug 1, there are about 122 international flights to Sabah each week, along with 353 domestic flights, reflecting the state's efforts to enhance accessibility and connectivity for tourists.
"As a result, the state government continues to strive to revitalise and develop the tourism sector through various programs this year.
"The reopening of the country's border entry points has had a positive impact and encouraged the recovery of Sabah's tourism sector," he said during the Sandakan Festival Launch at Padang Bandaran Sandakan here.
Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Jeffrey Kitingan read his speech.
Hajiji also emphasised the state government's commitment to promote various inclusive tourism initiatives and programmes, including developing air network connections.
"The efforts are aimed at making Sabah the most attractive tourist destination in Malaysia, not only for domestic tourists but also for international visitors."
On the Sandakan Festival 2023 with the theme "Let's Explore Sandakan," Hajiji said it was given special attention and priority to attract tourists back to Sabah after the global Covid-19 pandemic two years ago.
Sandakan is famous for being the gateway to eco-tourism destinations in Sabah, such as the Kinabatangan River, the Gomantong Cave, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the Turtle Islands Park, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, the Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, the Sandakan Heritage Trails, the Sandakan Memorial Park, and the Puh Jih Shih Temple.
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