KOTA KINABALU: Tourism Malaysia and Star Media Group Berhad are set to continue their nationwide tour of the Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia (SKCCM) 2026, with the Sabah edition marking the third stop. The three-day event  held from 14 to 16 August 2026 at Imago Shopping Mall in Kota Kinabalu, offer a vibrant platform to promote domestic travel and local tourism businesses.

Under the theme “Explore, Experience, Excite”, the carnival aims to inspire Malaysians to discover the country’s diverse destinations through exclusive holiday packages, travel deals, engaging activities, and exciting prize draws. Visitors can enjoy stage performances, interactive experiences, and a variety of travel-related prizes, including flight discounts, shopping vouchers, and tourism packages.

The Sabah event follows a successful launch at Menara Star in Petaling Jaya on 24 June 2026, and is part of a broader campaign to boost domestic tourism in support of Visit Malaysia 2026–2027. The tour, covering six states—Pahang, Johor, Sabah, Penang, Selangor, and Sarawak—is expected to attract over 200,000 visitors and generate more than RM1 million in sales, providing a vital platform for industry players to connect directly with consumers.

Datuk Chan Foong Hin, Deputy Minister of Plantation and Commodities, highlighted Sabah’s status as one of Malaysia’s most distinctive tourism destinations, thanks to its natural landscapes, biodiversity, cultural heritage, and unique travel experiences. He emphasised that initiatives like SKCCM 2026 are vital in encouraging Malaysians to explore local attractions, support tourism businesses, and foster growth within the industry.

The Sabah edition will feature diverse exhibitors, including travel agencies, accommodation providers, adventure operators such as Aquaria KLCC and KL Hop-On Hop-Off, and hospitality brands like Lotus Desaru Beach Resort, Raia Hotels, and Dairy Farm Kundasang. Cultural offerings, including local culinary delights such as Nasi Dagang Atas Tol and traditional batik arts, will also be showcased.

Attendees will have the chance to learn about new destinations, experience local flavours, and engage with tourism providers all under one roof. The event will also host interactive activities, stage performances, and prize draws with attractive travel rewards.

Sabah’s tourism sector continues to thrive, with 2.3 million domestic visitors recorded in 2025, reflecting the state’s strong appeal among Malaysian travellers. This momentum supports Sabah’s preparations for Visit Malaysia 2026–2027 and Visit Sabah 2027, further reinforcing its role in strengthening Malaysia’s domestic tourism landscape.

Following Sabah, the SKCCM 2026 tour will proceed to Penang in September, continuing its mission to promote local tourism, elevate industry engagement, and inspire Malaysians to explore the country’s rich array of attractions and experiences.-BNN