Tourism potentials in North Sulawesi explored through fam trip

8 September 2024

By AVV

KOTA KINABALU : A group of tourism industry representatives from Sabah recently visited North Sulawesi to explore potential tourism opportunities.

The trip, organised by the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in Kota Kinabalu, aimed to promote the tourism sector following the launch of AirAsia’s inaugural direct flights between Kota Kinabalu and Manado.

The familiarisation trip, led by Consul General Rafail Walangitan, took place from September 1 to 6 and included three weekly flights on Fridays, Sundays, and Mondays.

“I am confident this event will strengthen bilateral relations between our regions, particularly in the vital tourism sector,” said Rafail during a business-matching session with North Sulawesi travel agents at a local hotel. He emphasised the importance of collaboration and the shared commitment to enhancing tourism.

Rafail expressed pride in uniting industry players from both regions and expressed gratitude to the North Sulawesi Provincial Tourism Office for their support in organising the event.

Both Sabah and North Sulawesi boast stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, positioning them as prime tourist destinations.

Rafail highlighted Manado’s attractions, such as the UNESCO-designated Bunaken Marine Park, a haven for divers, and Mount Manado Tua, which rises dramatically from the sea. The region's cultural diversity and unique cuisine further enhance its appeal to tourists.

Sabah, on the other hand, offers incredible natural beauty, from the majestic Mount Kinabalu to the stunning beaches and exotic islands, such as the Semporna region, which is also a paradise for divers, he said.

“The rich culture and traditions of the Sabah community also add to its appeal for tourists.

“Through this event, we hope to exchange information, establish cooperation, and develop joint strategies to promote tourism in both states,” he said.

He expressed hope that, from the table-top meeting, various initiatives and collaborations would emerge that would be beneficial for both parties.

“We are all aware that the challenges in the tourism sector are not easy, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which is still being felt today.

“However, with a strong spirit of togetherness and cooperation, I am confident that we can rise together and advance our tourism towards better recovery and growth.

“My hope is that, through this collaboration, we can improve tourism and the economy in both regions, providing tangible benefits for our communities,” he said.

Also present were the Head of North Sulawesi Province Tourism Office, Dr Kartika Devi Tanos; Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents Sabah Chapter Chairman, Mohd Azlan Salehbin Abd; familiarisation trip coordinator and Funholiday Managing Director, Connie Chong; ground handler Welcome Manado; senior officials from the Consulate General of Indonesia Kota Kinabalu; and hoteliers and travel agents from Manado.