Kampung Sungoi boosts eco-tourism drive

26 May 2026

KIULU: Remote Kampung Sungoi is making steady progress in community-based tourism, with villagers working together to develop tourism products aimed at generating income and creating opportunities for the local community.

The village has established the Kampung Sungoi Eco-Tourism Association, led by Hezron Jikin, to drive efforts to promote the village’s natural attractions and rural tourism experiences.

A key feature of the initiative is Timpak Nulu, a viewing and camping site on the village’s highest peak, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and lush landscape.

Since opening last year, Hezron said the site has been attracting visitors on a fairly regular basis, particularly local travellers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The attraction is equipped with a viewing platform, an open hall, kitchen facilities, toilets and changing rooms, as well as eight shelters, built through a RM150,000 grant from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment.

Located about an hour and a half’s drive from Kota Kinabalu, Timpak Nulu is also emerging as a nature-based retreat for visitors seeking scenic views and a countryside experience.

“Although we are located far from town, we want to make the most of our village’s beauty to attract more tourists while generating income for the community,” Hezron said, adding that other offerings include hiking activities, local food and traditional delicacies.

On Monday, Kiulu assemblyman and Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai visited the community eco-tourism attraction and praised villagers for taking the initiative to develop a tourism product.

“The effort by Kampung Sungoi residents is commendable because the community itself has taken ownership of developing tourism offerings based on the village’s strengths and natural environment."

“It is our hope that initiatives like this will inspire more villages across Sabah to explore community-based tourism as a way to diversify income sources, create additional economic opportunities and strengthen rural development,” he said.