KOTA KINABALU: The High Commission of India in Malaysia has voiced strong support for progressing talks on direct air connectivity between India and Sabah, calling it a potential “game changer” for tourism and economic cooperation.
The issue was raised during a courtesy call on Thursday by Acting High Commissioner Hitesh Rajpal to the Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister and Sabah Tourism Board (STB) chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
Hitesh said India sees significant potential in Sabah across tourism, trade and technology — sectors that remain priorities in India’s international engagement strategy.
He noted that Malaysia’s visa‑free entry facility for Indian passport holders has boosted travel demand and strengthened Malaysia’s appeal as a destination for Indian visitors, particularly alongside Visit Malaysia Year initiatives.
However, he cautioned that connectivity remains a key constraint and that improved air links are essential to unlock the growing Indian outbound travel market to Sabah.
“I commend and appreciate the efforts of the Sabah Tourism Board for its proactive engagement with the Indian market, including tourism stakeholders and carriers such as IndiGo. In terms of civil aviation, perhaps we can push the negotiations further. If we are able to establish direct connectivity, it would be a game changer. From our side, we would be happy to collaborate and pursue this collectively,” he said.
Hitesh also highlighted opportunities in the film industry, suggesting that incentives and streamlined facilitation could encourage more Indian productions to choose Sabah as a filming location.
Joniston said Sabah continues to regard India as an important growth market, supported by its large population and rising outbound travel.
“We are actively pursuing stronger links with India, including the possibility of direct flights. Sabah will continue to work closely with relevant partners to strengthen our presence in the Indian market,” he said.
Joniston added that STB facilitates film productions in Sabah by coordinating with the relevant authorities and providing ground support, including logistics and transport where required.
At present, Indian visitors travel to Sabah via connecting hubs such as Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and Brunei. Sabah recorded 11,282 Indian visitor arrivals in 2025, and 3,802 arrivals were recorded between January and April 2026, indicating a gradual upward trend.-pr/BNN
