KOTA KINABALU: Eight accommodation premises in Sabah have received certificates under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC)’s grading and quality assurance programmes.
The recipients comprise two five-star hotels or resorts, one four-star city hotel and five three-star city hotels. A five-star Green Hotel was also recognised for its commitment to environmental sustainability and green practices.
The figures were announced by Mohd Noh Hafifie Mapatoba, Assistant Director at the Sabah State Office of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC Sabah), during the certificate presentation ceremony for tourist accommodation grading, MOTAC SPA grading, the ASEAN Tourism Standard and Malaysia Tourism Quality Assurance (MyTQA).
“Your presence today is testament to the strong commitment of the entire hospitality ecosystem to upholding the quality and standards of Sabah’s tourism industry,” he said.
According to the latest MOTAC records cited at the ceremony, Sabah had 10 five-star hotels or resorts, 17 four-star hotels or resorts, 13 three-star hotels and one two-star hotel. The state also had 14 three-Orchid-rated and nine two-Orchid-rated premises.
Mohd Noh said Sabah’s natural attractions, from Mount Kinabalu and Semporna’s underwater scenery to the Danum Valley rainforest and the state’s cultural diversity—continued to draw visitors from around the world. But he stressed that these attractions needed to be supported by quality service, well-maintained facilities and internationally recognised safety standards.
He added that grading and certification offered benefits beyond formal recognition, including potential investment incentives, support for workforce needs, and greater visibility through Tourism Malaysia’s international promotional activities.
“Through these certifications, we are building a tourism ecosystem in Sabah that is not only beautiful and captivating, but also safe, comfortable and trusted around the world,” he said.
He congratulated the certificate recipients and urged them to maintain high service standards, contributing to the long-term growth of tourism in Sabah and Malaysia.-BNN
