Kiulu aims to be sport fishing hub

3 Julai 2023

By Wartawan Nabalu News

KIULU: The scenic river of Kiulu could soon become a magnet for sport fishing enthusiasts, according to Assistant Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.

"Sport fishing is a unique activity that has the potential to become a captivating tourism attraction. There is a growing demand for this recreational activity, especially among those who enjoy fishing as a leisure pursuit and are willing to spend a few nights," he said at the Kaamatan Celebration of Kampung Kitapol recently.

He added that he envisioned Kiulu as a pilot project for promoting sport fishing in Sabah, and hoped that it could be replicated in other districts if proven successful.

However, he stressed that sport fishing must be done in accordance with the 'tagal' principles, which involve the catch and release concept and the preservation of the fish population for community consumption during specific periods.

He also urged the 'tagal' caretakers to collaborate in preparing the necessary paperwork and devising effective strategies to attract more tourists to Kiulu for sport fishing.

Also present at the event was Tuaran Member of Parliament Datuk Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau, who is also Chairman of Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd.