Sabah Tourism Minister Details Plan to Bolster Industry Amid Airfare Surge

27 April 2026

KOTA KINABALU: Replying to Sri Tanjong Assemblyman Justin Wong Yung Bin's question on protecting Sabah's tourism supply chain from international constraints due to rising air transport costs, Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin outlined targeted strategies in today's State Assembly sitting.

"For the information of the Honourable Member for N.69 Sri Tanjong and noble Members of the House, my Ministry takes note that global conflicts and rising air transport costs have the potential to directly impact the state’s tourism industry, which inherently relies on international tourist arrivals and air connectivity," Jafry stated.

He identified key risks: increases in airfares from fuel costs; changes to routes or flight frequencies; declines in travel sentiment from major markets; and cancellations of plans.

The Ministry, through the Sabah Tourism Board, is focusing on continuity via incentives, marketing, and support, he stated adding this includes strengthening domestic and regional markets by boosting local campaigns against long-haul uncertainties; empowering North and Southeast Asia by targeting resilient markets like China, South Korea, Japan, and neighbours; and promoting premium tourism to attract high-spenders less affected by costs.

Recent sessions on 19 and 31 March engaged tourism groups, airlines, and operators for feedback and alignment. Another on 24 April will tackle diesel supplies.

"The Ministry will remain committed to ensuring that the local tourism industry stays resilient and sustainable, while supporting industry players to continue operating and contributing to Sabah's economic growth," he stressed.