Kota Belud Makes Debut as Stopover in Sail Malaysia Passage to the East

Joniston ( middle) during the meeting

20 May 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Kota Belud, often referred to as the Land of the Cowboys of the East, is making its debut as a stopover in this year’s Sail Malaysia: Passage to the East, offering a fresh perspective for sailors seeking rural charm and cultural richness.

Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, who also chairs the Sabah Tourism Board, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, said Kota Belud's inclusion is a welcome addition to the rally, given the district's strong Bajau heritage, horse-riding tradition, and growing reputation for community-based tourism.

The annual sailing rally, which began in April, will arrive in Sabah this July. Over 31 yachts and 70 participants from 15 countries are expected to explore both coastal and inland attractions between 18 July and 1 September.

New participating countries this year include Lebanon, Turkey, Kuwait, Tunisia, and India—highlighting the growing international interest in Malaysia’s sailing routes and Sabah’s diverse tourism appeal.

Joniston, who also serves as the patron of Sail Malaysia Borneo, noted that the rally plays a vital role in promoting Sabah to international travellers and in reinforcing the state's reputation as a destination for culture, adventure, and nature.

He added that the inclusion of new countries and destinations such as Kota Belud is a promising development, aligning with efforts to build momentum ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

Sabah’s rising popularity as a yachting destination is further supported by ongoing infrastructure development, including the identification of new berthing areas in locations such as Tuaran, aimed at accommodating the increasing number of international sailors.

Joniston also encouraged closer collaboration between the organisers and the Sabah Tourism Board to enhance the promotion of the Sabah leg as a key highlight of the entire rally.

He recently chaired a coordination meeting for Sail Malaysia, attended by representatives from the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) and key tourism stakeholders, to ensure smooth operations and safety throughout Sabah’s segment of the event.

Sail Malaysia Managing Director, Sazli Kamal Basha, said the rally follows the familiar eastern route, beginning in Langkawi, with scheduled stopovers in Kota Kinabalu, Tuaran, Kudat, Lahad Datu, Kunak, Kinabatangan, Sandakan, Tawau, and Semporna.

He added that participants will have the rare opportunity to sail inland along the Kinabatangan River—one of Sabah’s most iconic wildlife corridors—renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning natural beauty.

Sazli noted that many sailors are drawn to Sabah for its unspoilt nature, safe harbours, and the warm hospitality extended by local communities.