Rural tourism roadshow to promote new attractions
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Tourism Board (STB) will continue to identify new products around the State in tandem with the positive growth of the tourism industry here.
As such, STB will lead an event where rural tourism product owners could engage, promote and partner with tour operators.
“This is the time to show the world what rural areas in Sabah can offer in terms of tourism products,” said chairman of Sabah Tourism Board, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai during a courtesy call on Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Hj Aman.
Musa agreed that it is a very good initiative to showcase what Sabah’s rural areas are offering for the thriving tourism industry.
“It is indeed very important to tell Sabah’s rural story to the world including its natural attractions, rich cultural heritage and an array of tourism products.
“Developing rural tourism will also assist our rural folks in uplifting their livelihood. I commend STB on this effort to give touristic value to the lesser known parts of Sabah,” he said.
The first Sabah Rural Tourism Roadshow 2017 is about appreciating and publicizing new and available rural tourism products to the general public as well as tourism industry players, who will create promotions and packages for both domestic and international segments.
Four districts, namely Kiulu, Ranau, Kadamaian and Tambunan, will be the highlight during the roadshow which will be held on August 5 and 6 at Imago Shopping Mall, which is also sponsoring the venue.
Activities like quizzes and games such as butod eating challenge, treasure hunt, traditional performances and games and children’s activities will be available at the event.
“This roadshow is the result of a workshop organized by STB in May for district offices that focus on developing district and rural tourism by activating their respective District Tourism Councils. STB has put a huge amount of effort in supporting this initiative since 2014,” said Joniston.
Also present during the courtesy call were STB general manager Gordon Yapp, Kiulu Tourism Association president Dr Edmon Guntis, Kadamaian Tourism Association president Walter Kandayon and STB senior product manager Julinus Jimit.