KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, YB Datuk Jafry Ariffin, today officiated the opening ceremony of MATTA Fair Sabah 2026, held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), highlighting the state’s continued strength as one of Malaysia’s premier tourism destinations.
In his opening address, Jafry expressed appreciation to the MATTA Sabah Chapter for organising the annual tourism fair and for its ongoing efforts in promoting travel and tourism development in the state.
He also thanked tourism industry players, strategic partners, and stakeholders for their dedication and collaboration in ensuring the success of the event.
“Sabah continues to stand out as one of Malaysia’s most unique and attractive destinations, offering rich cultural diversity, breathtaking natural landscapes, and the warm hospitality of its people,” he said.
Jafry noted that events such as MATTA Fair Sabah play an important role in strengthening the tourism ecosystem by providing a valuable platform for travel agents, tour operators, airlines, hoteliers, and related stakeholders to connect, collaborate, and showcase travel offerings.
Despite ongoing global challenges and uncertainties affecting the tourism industry, he commended Sabah’s tourism players for their resilience, adaptability, and commitment to innovation.
Looking ahead to Visit Malaysia Year 2026, he described initiatives such as MATTA Fair Sabah as timely and strategic in stimulating travel demand while reinforcing Sabah’s position as a key contributor to national tourism growth.
He also stressed the importance of sustainable and responsible tourism development, calling on all stakeholders to preserve Sabah’s natural environment, safeguard cultural heritage, and empower local communities through rural and community-based tourism initiatives.
Jafry encouraged visitors attending the fair to take advantage of the travel packages and opportunities on offer, while continuing to support domestic tourism by exploring the beauty, diversity, and authenticity of Sabah.
He then officially declared MATTA Fair Sabah 2026 open. -BNN
