New Tourism Jetty to Boost Safety and Investment

11 February 2026

SANDAKAN: Sandakan is in urgent need of a new tourism jetty to facilitate the movement of tourists to the resort islands around Sandakan.

Member of Parliament for Sandakan, Vivian Wong Shir Yee said that at present, many tourists travelling to resorts on the surrounding islands have to board boats from the jetty near the Central Market or beside the Post Office.

She explained that, coupled with the exclusive management of the jetty, the situation has also raised concerns regarding tourist safety.

According to her, Sandakan has great potential in eco-tourism, historical and cultural heritage, as well as biodiversity.

Therefore, the Government should give serious consideration to the proposal to construct a new tourism jetty in Sandakan.

This is further reinforced by the reopening of the former Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, now known as Hotel Ormond, a leading hotel chain from the capital, which is set to begin operations in the town centre soon, as well as plans to develop a new tourism centre on Berhala Island.

Vivian Wong made these remarks during the debate on the Royal Address by His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong for 2026 in the Dewan Rakyat.

She also stressed that the development of basic infrastructure in Sandakan must no longer be neglected and requires more serious attention and action from the Federal Government.

She said that while investors recognise Sandakan’s development potential and are willing to invest capital in the area, the Government must also play its part by moving in tandem, strengthening and enhancing infrastructure facilities in Sandakan to attract more investors to invest here.