Sabah Welcomes Cruise Ship Passengers Amidst Booming Tourism
Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, December 3, 2024 – The vibrant city of Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, recently welcomed over 1,200 visitors aboard the luxury cruise ship MS Seven Seas Explorer as part of an itinerary exploring the diverse beauty of Borneo Island.
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Sabah Tourism, eager to showcase the best of Borneo, enthusiastically greeted the passengers, stating on Facebook: “We’re delighted to have you dock in the vibrant heart of Borneo. Though your stay may be short, we hope you’ll enjoy the charm of Kota Kinabalu — its landscapes, cuisine, and warm, friendly people.”
This influx of tourists follows a period of impressive growth for Sabah’s tourism industry. According to the Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew, the state welcomed 2.41 million visitors between January and September 2024, generating MYR5.62 million in revenue.
This impressive 28.3% surge compared to the same period last year is partly attributed to the improved flight connectivity. “This impressive growth is attributed to increased flight connectivity, with 98% of arrivals via air travel,” the minister explained. “Sabah currently benefits from 377 weekly domestic flights offering 66,546 seats, linking the state to various regions across Malaysia. On the international front, Sabah is linked to 17 destinations through 126 weekly flights, with a total capacity of 23,394 seats.”
The influx of Chinese tourists played a significant role in this flourishing tourism sector, accounting for 39% of all visitors.
Sabah, with its diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, is gaining increasing popularity as a destination for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike.