Sabah to breathe new life into iconic events
KOTA KINABALU: As part of the preparations for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the State Government will breathe new life into iconic events such as the Mount Kinabalu International Climbathon and Sabah Fest this year, said Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew.
In the past, the Mount Kinabalu climbathon was usually held in either September or October while the Sabah Fest was normally held at the end of May.
Additionally, the Sabah Convention Bureau has been allocated RM5 million this year to provide assistance and support to organizations and associations in organising Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Events (MICE) in the state, said Liew.
This initiative aims to attract potential Business Events delegations, not only enhancing Sabah’s reputation in the leisure market among tourists but also expanding its presence in the Business Events segment, Liew added.
She said this in her speech during the official launching of the Business Events Forum at Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) on Thursday.
According to Liew, the establishment of the convention bureau is a game-changer. It signifies a strategic approach to elevate Sabah as a premier business events destination in Malaysia and the Asia Pacific region.
“With meticulous planning, innovative ideas, and a commitment to excellence, we can attract conferences, trade shows, and corporate gatherings that will not only boost our economy but also enrich our cultural fabric,” she said.
Business events, Liew pointed out, are more than just dates on a calendar.
“They are catalysts for socioeconomic growth. When we host a conference, we create jobs, stimulate local businesses, and foster knowledge exchange. Our impact extends beyond tourism — it influences education, technology, and even policymaking.
“Let us embrace this holistic view and recognise that every delegate who walks through our doors contributes to the larger tapestry of progress. Let us leverage the collective wisdom and experiences gathered here to shape the future of Business Events not just in Sabah but across the globe.
“I urge each of you to actively participate, to share your insights, and to engage in meaningful dialogue. Together, we can unlock the full potential of Business Events and pave the way for a prosperous future,” she said.
In her speech which was delivered by the ministry’s Deputy Permanent Secretary Alesia Sion, Liew said that as industry players delve into unlocking the key to business events, drawing insights from diverse regions across the globe, they also aim to evolve business events by exploring the future landscape, with a particular focus on the trajectory of Sabah.
“We are here to chart new horizons, navigate through challenges, and embrace the prospects that lie ahead. Sabah’s future is bright, and we are committed to positioning ourselves as a beacon of innovation and excellence in business events.
“Our aspirations extend beyond mere aspirations on paper. We are dedicated to crafting a destination competitiveness strategy that will propel Sabah to the forefront of the Asia Pacific region as a leading business event destination.
“As we absorb the energy of this forum, let us remember that our actions must extend beyond our boardrooms. We have a responsibility to uplift our local community, to empower small businesses, and to foster sustainable growth. By being proactive, we can create a ripple effect that reaches far beyond our immediate circles,” she stressed.