MATTA Fair Sabah 2026 Kicks Off Boosting Tourism in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year

18 April 2026

KOTA KINABALU: The MATTA Fair Sabah 2026 launched today at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), gathered together 167 participants.

This include 57 agencies and 110 industry players.

The industry players, partners, and travel enthusiasts showcased Sabah's tourism offerings in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

Organised by the MATTA Sabah Chapter, the event provides a key platform for collaboration amid global challenges, with Datuk Jafry Ariffin the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment (KePKAS) officiating and praising its strategic timing.

"Initiatives like MATTA Fair Sabah not only stimulate travel demand but also strengthen Sabah’s position as a key contributor to the nation’s tourism growth," he stated.

Sabah's unique appeal, from breathtaking landscapes and cultural diversity to warm hospitality, takes centre stage, as exhibitors promote sustainable packages emphasising rural and community-based tourism.

Jafry highlighted the sector's resilience, "It is encouraging to witness the resilience and adaptability of Sabah’s tourism players, who continue to innovate and move forward with confidence."

Attendees were urged to explore deals that preserve natural and cultural heritage while uplifting local communities.

"Choose to Explore Sabah, discovering the beauty, diversity, and authenticity that our state has to offer," he encouraged.

The fair underscores Sabah's pivotal role in national tourism revival, promising innovative promotions to attract domestic and international visitors.

Also present during the event were Datuk Joniston Bangkuai Assistant Minister to the

Chief Minister and Chairman of the Sabah Tourism Board , Datuk Josie Lai Permanent Secretary Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah, Nigel Wong President of MATTA, Datuk Dr. Tan Kok Liang Immediate Past President of MATTA, Mohd Azlan Saleh Mohd Salam Organising Chairman, MATTA Sabah Chapter, Julinus Jeffy Jimit Chief Executive Officer of Sabah Tourism Board and Chong Wai Kit Director of MOTAC Sabah.