Kazakhstan seeks tourism collaboration with Sabah

21 August 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The Republic of Kazakhstan has expressed a keen interest in exploring tourism collaboration with Sabah, recognising the state's international reputation for sustainable, eco, and community-based tourism.

This development follows a courtesy call today by the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Malaysia, His Excellency Bulat Sugurbayev, on the Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment cum Chairman of the Sabah Tourism Board (STB), Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.

The meeting focused on potential areas of cooperation, particularly in tourism promotion and cultural exchange. Among the ideas discussed were joint promotional initiatives between STB and Kazakh tour operators.

Also present were the Second Secretary of the Kazakh Embassy, Akmaral Belgibekova, STB Deputy Chief Executive Officer Tay Shu Lan, and senior STB officers.

During the meeting, Ambassador Sugurbayev shared plans to bring the renowned Kazakh Concert to Sabah in mid-October, with performances slated to take place at several of the state’s key tourist destinations.

The event is expected to be covered by Kazakhstan’s national television and broadcast back home, effectively promoting Sabah’s tourism attractions to a wider Kazakh audience.

Both parties also explored opportunities for knowledge-sharing in rural, nature-based, cultural, and adventure tourism. Ambassador Sugurbayev noted Sabah’s strong appeal for Kazakh travellers, particularly in relation to its islands, diving experiences, cuisine, and cultural offerings.

Discussions also touched on collaborations with Sabah’s rural communities. Datuk Joniston noted the shared heritage of nomadic village life between Sabah and Kazakhstan, suggesting both regions could benefit from mutual learning in developing rural tourism.

He welcomed Kazakhstan’s interest and reaffirmed Sabah’s commitment to building meaningful partnerships that foster mutual growth.

“Sabah’s strength lies in its rich biodiversity, vibrant cultural heritage, and our success in empowering communities through tourism,” he said.

“We are always open to sharing our experiences and equally eager to learn from others. Strengthening ties with Kazakhstan opens exciting avenues for collaboration and knowledge exchange within the tourism sector.”

According to official records, between January and May 2025, a total of 20,102 Kazakh nationals visited Malaysia, with the majority opting for Langkawi—highlighting an untapped opportunity for Sabah to position itself as a destination of choice for Kazakh travellers.