Promote Rare blooms as tourism products

13 May 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Harnessing the allure of Sabah’s rare Rafflesia blooms as a sustainable, community-driven tourism product could empower rural villages while safeguarding one of the world’s most extraordinary natural wonders.

In a recent meeting with Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, conservationist and Borneo Eco Tours Managing Director, Albert Teo, proposed that local communities take the lead in managing and guiding visitors to Rafflesia sites located near their villages.

He emphasised that the flower’s rarity and brief blooming period make it a high-value attraction, particularly among eco-conscious travellers.

“There are already Rafflesia species growing near kampungs. This presents a unique opportunity for locals to earn income while helping to preserve a fragile part of their natural heritage.

“With basic infrastructure and proper training, communities could welcome visitors through guided treks, supported by simple facilities such as walking trails and informative signage,” he said.

Teo also proposed the formation of a Rafflesia Community Alliance, a network connecting kampungs situated close to known Rafflesia sites.

Joniston, who also chairs the Sabah Tourism Board, responded positively to the proposal, stating that the state government is supportive of initiatives that involve local communities in tourism, especially those rooted in nature and culture.

“Rafflesia has always been an iconic symbol of Sabah’s rich biodiversity. It is time we identify and map out areas where kampungs can benefit responsibly from this rare flower,” he said.

He added that the Sabah Tourism Board could explore efforts to identify existing Rafflesia sites near villages, particularly in Tambunan, Ranau, and along the Crocker Range, regions already recognised for rural and nature-based tourism.

“Empowering local communities will foster long-term conservation. When people see the value in protecting something, they take ownership of it. This cultivates community pride and enhances sustainability.

“This approach aligns with our Culture, Adventure, and Nature (CAN) strategy for tourism development,” he added.

Sabah is home to three of the world’s 15 known species of Rafflesia: Rafflesia keithii, Rafflesia pricei, and Rafflesia tengku-adlinii.

Among them, Rafflesia keithii is the largest species found in Sabah, while Rafflesia tengku-adlinii is the rarest. The latter is named after Datuk Seri Tengku Zainal Adlin Tengku Mohamood, who played a pivotal role in advancing tourism and environmental conservation in the state.