STB to help revitalise tourism in Sandakan

14 August 2024

SANDAKAN: The Sabah Tourism Board (STB) held discussions with elected representatives and tourism stakeholders in Sandakan to gather feedback on tourism-related matters and proposed solutions, today.

Chaired by STB chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, the engagement aimed to address concerns impacting efforts to revitalise tourism in Sandakan and to foster dialogue and innovative ideas from all sectors.

"In tourism, every idea holds value, regardless of its origin. It is imperative that we collaborate across political boundaries to ensure Sandakan and Sabah are prominently positioned on the tourism landscape. Tourism is a collective endeavor for all of Sabah, and every constructive idea can make a significant impact," stated Joniston, who also serves as the Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Environment.

Key attendees included Sandakan Member of Parliament Vivian Wong, Elopura Assemblyman Calvin Chong, STB Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jeffrey Jimit, Sandakan Municipal Council President Henry Idol, and representatives from various local stakeholders.

During the session, Julinus provided an overview of the current state of tourism in Sabah and Sandakan, highlighting the district's key attractions such as the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre and the Agnes Keith House.

The discussion also covered air accessibility to Sandakan, with the district having direct flights from Kuala Lumpur (27 weekly flights), Kota Kinabalu (36 weekly flights), Tawau (7 weekly flights) and Lahad Datu (7 weekly flights).

With direct flights available from Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Tawau, and Lahad Datu, airlines servicing Sandakan include AirAsia, MASWings, Malaysia Airlines, and Firefly. 

Julinus reaffirmed STB's commitment to promoting Sandakan to new markets and pursuing potential direct flight opportunities with airlines.

Calvin emphasised the importance of identifying Sandakan's unique selling points and addressing issues related to abandoned and deteriorating buildings in the old coastal town. He proposed the development of a compelling slogan to attract visitors to Sandakan.

Vivian highlighted the impact of travel advisories on tourism and expressed interest in revitalizing Sandakan's 'Little Hong Kong' identity, while emphasizing the promotion of Chinese activities.

Both representatives stressed on the significance of introducing direct flights to Sandakan, whether domestic or international.

They welcomed any new flight services to the region. Additionally, key tourism stakeholders in Sandakan shared feedback from tourists and tour operators, emphasising the need to address issues such as inadequate parking for tourist buses, town cleanliness, lighting deficiencies, security concerns, and damaged walkways due to tree roots.

In response, Joniston assured that all issues, challenges, and proposed solutions identified during the engagement would be documented for reference in addressing the raised concerns.

He suggested the development of an action plan, with STB serving as the secretariat, to revitalize tourism in Sandakan. The local industry players have been striving to rejuvenate tourism in Sandakan amidst security challenges, and these collaborative efforts aim to overcome these obstacles effectively.