Sabah Tourism Stands Strong Amid Global Tensions

4 May 2026

KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor is confident that Sabah’s tourism sector will remain resilient despite challenges from the ongoing Middle East conflict.

Undoubtedly, he said, many businesses will need to take bold, decisive action to navigate the uncertainties ahead.

“This crisis will fundamentally reshape how we operate. Every sector will be affected, which means we must adapt and innovate in our business practices. Yet, the future remains bright. Despite these obstacles, I am heartened to see strong investor confidence in Sabah's tourism sector,” he said at the official opening of the Sheraton Kota Kinabalu here on Monday.

In response to emerging industry challenges fuelled by the Middle East conflict, the Sabah Tourism Ministry is proactively refining its strategies to ensure Sabah remains a premier, resilient, and globally attractive destination for travellers worldwide.

To deliver seamless visitor experiences, the Chief Minister said the State Government is bolstering Sabah’s competitiveness through strategic initiatives.

These include forging partnerships with global airlines to boost connectivity, developing premium tourism products, elevating service standards to international levels, and hosting high-value events.

“Through these efforts, we will position Sabah as both a premier holiday destination and a dynamic business hub,” he added.

Hajiji was pleased to note that, alongside the Sheraton Kota Kinabalu, several other hotels are at various stages of completion, including Avani and Fairfield by Marriott, Grandis at The Peninsula in Kota Kinabalu, Club Med in Kuala Penyu, InterContinental in Papar, and Wyndham in Semporna, among others.

“These developments will add 2,740 rooms to our existing inventory, a testament to the resilience and optimism of our industry partners, even in uncertain times,” he said.

He emphasised that the economic impact of these hotel projects cannot be overstated.

“We are looking at hundreds of jobs, not just within the hotels themselves, but across supply chains, services, and related businesses. Local suppliers, restaurants, and attractions will benefit tremendously.

Beyond the economic gains, these new hotels will elevate Sabah’s profile as a premier destination, attracting conferences, corporate events, and discerning travellers who will experience the very best we have to offer, thereby strengthening our economy through sustained tourism revenue.”

The opening of the Sheraton Kota Kinabalu, which cost more than RM300 million, marks a significant milestone as Sabah seizes opportunities from Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

“This momentum will extend to the end of 2027 and serve as a catalyst for Sabah’s continued preparations for Visit Sabah Year 2027,” he said.

He expressed confidence that the Sheraton would showcase Sabah’s culture, heritage, and warm hospitality, sending a clear message that the state is open for business and ready to compete on the global stage.