KePKAS bids Minister Farewell

25 November 2025

KOTA KINABALU: The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment (KePKAS) hosted a Farewell Appreciation Luncheon at the Marriott Hotel on Tuesday to honour its outgoing Minister, Datuk Seri Christina Liew.

A specially produced video montage titled "Trip Down Memory Lane"was screened, created by the Sabah Tourism Board (STB). It highlighted her significant contributions to the national tourism industry, with particular emphasis on Sabah’s development.

Key achievements showcased included Liew’s international efforts to promote Sabah as a premier tourist destination in Australia, China, South Korea, Singapore, as well as at major events such as ITB Berlin in Germany and the World Travel Market in London. She was instrumental in launching new tourism products, including the Elephant Food Corridor in Kinabatangan, Sandakan, and the Sabah Cultural Centre in Kinarut, Papar. Her tenure also saw the enhancement of the Bornean Elephant Sanctuary, a focus on UNESCO World Heritage sites in Sabah, upgrades to existing tourism infrastructure, and strong support for community-based tourism initiatives.

Organising Chairperson Datuk Josie Lai, who also serves as the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, stated that the occasion was a celebration of Liew’s remarkable service and enduring legacy as Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment.

As emcee Trixie Carlena Richard put it, “Today, we are not saying ‘goodbye’, but rather ‘thank you’. We wish Datuk Christina all the very best in the next chapter of her journey. We are celebrating her illustrious career in tourism and the profound impact she has made on Sabah’s tourism landscape.”

In her speech, the caretaker minister reflected on her journey, recalling that she rejoined KePKAS three years ago after a political twist of fate, having been sworn in as Minister for this portfolio on 11th January 2023.

She described the past three years—2023, 2024, and 2025—as being eventful, productive, and rewarding, from the perspectives of tourism growth, preservation of Sabah’s cultural and historical heritage, environmental protection, and wildlife conservation.

“I could not have achieved the Ministry’s strategic goals and objectives alone. Success was only possible through teamwork. My assistant minister, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, has been a tremendous support, as have the Ministry’s senior officials, officers, staff, and heads of departments and agencies,” Liew said.

She expressed heartfelt appreciation to Datuk Joniston, Lai, Deputy Permanent Secretary I Mary Malangking, retired Deputy Permanent Secretary II Alesia Sion, current Deputy Permanent Secretary II Datin Dr Cleopatra Asing, and all other senior officers.

Liew also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of the Director of Sabah Parks Board of Trustees, Datuk Dr Maklarin Lakim (represented by Deputy Director Rimi Repin); the Director of Sabah Wildlife Department, Mohd Soffian Abu Bakar (represented by Deputy Director Sailun Aris); the Director of Sabah Museum, Arif Abd Hamid; the Director of the Environmental Protection Department (EPD), Vitalis Moduying (who is currently recovering from illness); Acting Director of EPD, Daisy Aloysius (represented by Nurfaeziane Nordin); the CEO of Sabah Tourism Board (STB), Julinus Jeffery Jimit (represented by Deputy CEO Josephine Chai); the General Manager of the Sabah Cultural Board, Mackey Apison; and the CEO of Sabah Convention Bureau, Noredah Othman (represented by Friscyella Lazabot). Also present was Chief Financial Officer Jacky Chang, representing Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of STB.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked with such a dedicated team,” she added. “It has been a pleasure contributing to the growth and reputation of this ministry.”

Her final message to members of KePKAS was to respect the organisational hierarchy and remain loyal to their superiors and the organisation. “Above all, be true to yourself. Uphold your principles and maintain professionalism in your work. If you embrace these values, you will achieve success both professionally and personally.”

Liew further advised, “Over the past three years, I have learned that it is equally important to reinforce your strengths and address any weaknesses. Be credible, resourceful, and resilient in the face of challenges. Turn obstacles into opportunities for growth. Act responsibly, be accountable, and operate transparently to build a reputation of integrity that will earn public trust and confidence.”

In closing, she expressed heartfelt gratitude: “Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your unwavering support and dedication during my tenure.”

In a rare moment of levity, Liew took to the stage to perform a rendition of “Tian Mi Mi” (“Sweet Honey”), accompanied by Music Monster Entertainment. The song, written by the late Taiwanese singer Teresa Teng, was one of her favourites.