Indian Consulate Plan Set to Boost Sabah’s Tourism, Trade and Investment

Brian Ho

21 February 2026

KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysia–China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Sabah has welcomed the Indian Government’s announcement of plans to establish a consulate in Kota Kinabalu, describing the move as a positive development that will further strengthen bilateral relations while generating fresh momentum for Sabah’s tourism, trade and investment sectors.

MCCC Sabah Director of Commercial Affairs Brian Ho said the chamber fully supports the views expressed by its member, Datuk Abdul Kadir M.E. Sikkandar, Adviser to the Sabah Indian Muslim Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who has consistently highlighted the vast potential of the Indian market.

Brian noted that Kadir, a seasoned figure in the business community, possesses deep insight into India’s economic growth trajectory and expanding consumer base. His observation that attracting even a small fraction of India’s 1.3 billion population to visit Sabah could significantly boost the state’s tourism industry is both realistic and strategically sound.

“In recent years, India’s outbound tourism has grown rapidly, supported by rising disposable incomes and an expanding middle and upper class. Several regional destinations have actively positioned themselves within the Indian market and are already reaping substantial benefits,” he said.

While Sabah offers world-class attractions — including , the islands of Semporna, pristine rainforests and diverse wildlife, Brian acknowledged that awareness of Sabah among Indian travellers remains relatively limited compared with destinations such as , and . He stressed that this gap represents an opportunity rather than a constraint.

Brian added that the establishment of an Indian consulate in Kota Kinabalu would enhance direct institutional and business-to-business engagement, improve administrative facilitation, and strengthen confidence among investors and travellers alike. It would also support more coordinated tourism promotion efforts and create favourable conditions for expanding air connectivity, including the potential introduction of direct flights in future.

Beyond tourism, Brian emphasised that trade prospects between Sabah and India extend well beyond existing palm oil exports. Opportunities exist in halal products, agro-processing, education exchanges, medical tourism, hospitality services, and the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) industry. A stronger diplomatic presence would help streamline commercial linkages and open the door to deeper collaboration across multiple sectors.

“In the context of global supply chain realignment and increasing economic diversification, Sabah must adopt an open and forward-looking approach in engaging emerging markets. Building a broader and more resilient trade network is essential for long-term competitiveness,” he said.

Brian reiterated that Sabah’s development strategy should not be confined to any single market. Instead, it should embrace diversified partnerships with China, India and other global economies in a balanced and inclusive manner.

“Diversified international linkages will create greater opportunities for local enterprises and strengthen Sabah’s strategic position within the regional economic landscape,” he added.

At the same time, he highlighted that Sabah continues to maintain strong and stable economic relations with China, which remains one of the state’s key trading and investment partners. MCCC Sabah will continue to play its bridging role in reinforcing Malaysia–China cooperation while actively supporting the state government’s efforts to expand engagement with India and other countries, ensuring multilateral growth and mutual benefit.

Brian further noted that with targeted marketing initiatives, enhanced aviation connectivity, and the development of niche segments such as high-end eco-tourism and destination weddings, Sabah is well positioned to attract more high-spending Indian travellers. With its natural ecological assets and competitive cost advantages, the state has the potential to secure a stronger foothold in the regional tourism market.

MCCC Sabah reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the state government, industry stakeholders and international partners to position Sabah as a dynamic regional hub for tourism, trade and investment.