KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor is confident that Sabah's target of three million visitor arrivals by year-end is achievable, given the 2.42 million already recorded by the third quarter.
Despite the achievement, Hajiji said more can be done to attract visitors and boost the state's tourism sector.
He said this can be done by promoting new tourism products and enhancing services to meet visitors' expectations.
"Riding on this success, we will continue to enhance tourism infrastructure, focusing on high-value and sustainable tourism that highlights Sabah's natural and cultural wealth," he said at the Sabah Tourism Appreciation Night at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) last night.
Hajiji's speech was read by Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew.
Also present were Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, who is also STB chairman, STB chief executive officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit, and state Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry permanent secretary, Datuk Josie Lai.
He commended the Sabah Tourism Board (STB) team for promoting Sabah and working alongside the industry on win-win initiatives to ensure that the tourism sector remains a critical driver of Sabah's economy.
Hajiji also noted the positive growth in community-based tourism (CoBT) starting with just five products in 2014, which has grown to 107 registered owners and operators so far.
He also reminded everyone that tourism's role aligned closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Meanwhile, Liew in representing Hajiji had also presented the Special Chief Minister's Award to Sabah Parks, in recognition of its efforts as "a global champion in conservation, sustainability, and community empowerment".
On hand to receive the award was Sabah Parks director, Dr Maklarin Lakim.
Sabah Parks was recognised for its commitment to environmental conservation, sustainable development, and community engagement.
On May 24, 2023, UNESCO elevated Sabah's global status by designating the Kinabalu Geopark as one of 18 new UNESCO Global Geoparks.