Sabah gears up with 7 new hotels amidst tourism surge

Sabah is poised to bolster its tourism infrastructure with the addition of seven new hotels, contributing 2,053 rooms, as the state rides the wave of a continuous surge in tourist arrivals, which is expected to reach a staggering 2.2 million by the end of this year.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor unveiled this development, highlighting Sabah’s popularity as a sought-after destination. Presently, the state boasts 685 hotels, ranging from 5-star establishments to budget-friendly lodgings, with a collective capacity of 26,822 rooms.

Hajiji also noted that Sabah’s hotels have maintained an average occupancy rate of 52% over the past six months, with peak bookings during holidays and events. Additionally, the state government has earmarked RM10 million for vital rural tourism infrastructure, focusing on community-based tourism, with an eye on achieving the 80% Asean standard compliance by 2030.

Tourism sector is on an upward trajectory

Sabah’s tourism sector is on an upward trajectory, with Hajiji announcing the arrival of seven new hotels, contributing 2,053 additional rooms to cater to the growing influx of visitors.

Currently, the state boasts 685 hotels, spanning a range from opulent 5-star establishments to budget-friendly lodgings and lodges, collectively offering a substantial capacity of 26,822 rooms.

The Chief Minister shared this exciting development at the Shangri-La Tanjung Aru Resort’s 40th Ruby anniversary celebrations, underlining that Sabah’s appeal remains strong among tourists. In the period from January to July this year, the state welcomed a total of 1.4 million international and domestic visitors. Sabah now aims to surpass this impressive number and achieve the targeted figure of 2.2 million tourists by the year’s end.

One promising aspect of this growth is the state’s impressive hotel occupancy rate, which has averaged 52% over the last six months. Hajiji revealed that, on certain days, some hotels have even reported full occupancy, especially during holiday periods and when special events are hosted in the region.

Enhancement of essential tourism infrastructure

To further bolster its tourism industry and foster growth in community-based tourism, the state government, through the State Tourism, Culture and Environmental Ministry, has allocated RM10 million for the repair and enhancement of essential tourism infrastructure in rural areas. This investment aims to empower and improve the livelihoods of rural communities.

A significant goal on the horizon is Sabah’s aim to achieve an 80% Asean standard compliance target for community-based tourism in the state by 2030. This strategic focus reflects the state’s commitment to the sustainable development of tourism, ensuring that it benefits the local communities and maintains its appeal among visitors.

Sabah’s tourism sector has a bright future, with continuous efforts to improve infrastructure, diversify offerings, and enhance community-based tourism experiences. The Chief Minister’s announcement of seven new hotels is a testament to the region’s growth and the increasing interest it garners from tourists.

Sabah’s tourism sector is flourishing, with seven new hotels set to accommodate the growing number of tourists. With the promise of reaching 2.2 million visitors this year, the state remains a sought-after destination. The impressive average hotel occupancy rate of 52% over the past six months showcases the strength of Sabah’s tourism industry.

The state’s commitment to empowering rural communities and achieving an 80% Asean standard compliance for community-based tourism by 2030 reflects its dedication to sustainable growth. Sabah’s future in tourism looks promising, with continuous efforts to improve infrastructure and provide exceptional experiences for visitors, all while ensuring that the local communities benefit from this burgeoning industry.