Tourism remains Sabah's economic driving force

Christina beats the gong to mark the launch of the event.
KOTA KINABALU (June 19): Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said tourism remains the driving force of Sabah's economy, creating more than 380,000 jobs across various sectors.
He said that Sabah's tourism industry contributed approximately 15 per cent of the state's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) last year and recorded a significant achievement in 2023, contributing RM13.1 billion to the state's economy.
'Yet, statistics alone do not tell the whole story. Behind each number lies a livelihood, a
family and individuals who have contributed to the tourism economy.
'We have witnessed firsthand how tourism uplifts communities, and we take pride in our progress in community-based tourism here in Sabah,' he said at the launching of the ASEAN Travel Exchange (ATEX 2025) at Magellan Sutera Resort here on Thursday.
Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Christina Liew delivered his speech.
He said Sabah is home to many community-based tourism operators, and these initiatives were spearheaded by individuals and families from local villages, particularly rural communities, who create experiences that are distinctly Sabahan.
'As we speak, community-based tourism continues to expand in Sabah due to its immense potential to grow the economy, especially in the rural areas of Sabah.
'In 2024, the total state revenue contribution from this sector amounted to RM7 million from 18 active districts. More community-based initiatives in the rural districts are being introduced to benefit the rural communities,' he said.
Hajiji said the State Government is committed to the tourism industry's development.
'We are investing in infrastructure with ongoing upgrades to the Kota Kinabalu International Airport, improved road conditions giving access to rural tourism areas and enhanced digital platforms designed to promote and manage visitor experiences effectively.
'We are laying the foundation for a resilient and future-ready tourism economy. Sabah's strategy includes embracing green economy principles, advocating for digital transformation, and enhancing our profile as a premier venue and host for international tourism events,' he said.
The Chief Minister said Sabah envisioned itself as a peace hub – a state where businesses thrive, culture, history, and nature exist harmoniously, and development is always balanced with responsibility and sustainability.
'We aspire to be a model demonstrating how tourism can succeed while preserving the very elements that make it unique – our environment, cultures and communities,' he said.
Hajiji said ATEX 2025 marked a significant milestone for Sabah as it presents an opportunity to position the state not only as a destination but also as a strategic partner in shaping ASEAN's tourism future.
'We warmly welcome industry leaders from across the region to our shores, inviting all of them to deepen friendships to spark new business ventures and share in the journey ahead,' he said.
At the same time, he noted that ATEX 2025 serves as a reminder of just how powerful the combination of tourism, travel, hospitality and aviation can be.
'It creates a robust engine of growth and movement that generates vast opportunities for shared experiences.
'Hosting ATEX 2025 in Kota Kinabalu is not just an honour for us in Sabah, but it is also a platform brimming with potential. It offers us the chance to learn from one another, forge new connections, and collectively shape the future of tourism in this region,' he said.

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