KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor is confident that the State’s tourism sector will remain resilient despite challenges posed by the current Middle East conflict.
Undoubtedly, he said, many businesses would have to take bold, decisive action to address the uncertainties ahead due to the conflict.
“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.
Hajiji said in response to emerging industry challenges fueled 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 from around the world.
To ensure seamless visitor experiences, the Chief Minister said the State Government is strengthening Sabah’s capacity to compete through strategic initiatives.
He said these initiatives included establishing partnerships with global airlines to enhance connectivity, developing premium tourism products, improving service standards to international benchmarks, and hosting high-value events.
“Through these efforts, we will position Sabah as both a premier holiday destination and a dynamic business hub,” he said.
Hajiji was happy to note that in addition to 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.
Hajiji said the economic impact of these hotel developments 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 benefits, these new hotel developments will elevate Sabah’s profile as a premier destination. They will attract conferences, corporate events, and travellers who will experience the very best we have to offer, thereby strengthening our economy through sustained tourism revenue,” he said.
He said the opening of Sheraton Kota Kinabalu, costing more than RM300 million, marked a significant milestone as Sabah embraced the opportunities presented by Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
“This momentum will now be extended to end of 2027 and serve as a catalyst for Sabah’s continued preparations for Visit Sabah Year 2027,” he said.
He was confident that Sheraton Kota Kinabalu would do its part in showcasing Sabah’s culture, heritage and warm hospitality.
“It also sends a clear, confident message that Sabah is open for business and ready to compete on the global stage,” he said.-pr/BNN
