Joniston Calls for More Rural Tourism Investment

7 April 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Tourism investors are encouraged to explore opportunities in rural areas, as demand for authentic cultural and nature-based travel experiences in Sabah continues to rise.

Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, emphasised the importance of inclusive tourism development that benefits both urban centres and interior communities.

“As we continue to grow Sabah’s hospitality and tourism sector, I would also like to encourage more tourism investors to explore opportunities in our rural areas.

“Rural tourism in Sabah is gaining traction, with more travellers seeking authentic cultural and nature-based experiences,” he said during the signing ceremony for the Ramada by Wyndham Kota Kinabalu, today.

He added that investing in quality accommodation and tourism facilities in rural destinations would complement the state’s broader strategy of promoting rural tourism as a key attraction, while also delivering tangible economic benefits to local communities.

The event marked a milestone collaboration between Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and local operator Capitol Hospitality Group Sdn Bhd (CHG), bringing the globally recognised Ramada by Wyndham brand to Kota Kinabalu for the first time.

Set to open in the first quarter of 2029, the new hotel will be part of the 88 Avenue mixed development in Kepayan. The project will also feature a shopping mall, residential apartments, and commercial suites to attract both domestic and international visitors.

CHG has been appointed as the hotel operator by project financier Mega City Builder Sdn Bhd (MCB), while design firm Obsessive Compulsive Design Sdn Bhd (OCD), to lead the design of the hotel, with the aim of delivering world-class hospitality under the Ramada by Wyndham brand.

Wyndham’s Senior Development Director for the Southeast Asia Pacific Rim (SEAPR), Eudo Chan, expressed optimism about the venture.

“We are excited to bring the Ramada by Wyndham brand to Kota Kinabalu, which is one of the most vibrant and fast-growing cities in Malaysia.

“With the support of Capitol Hospitality Group and Mega City Builder, we are confident this new hotel will contribute significantly to the city’s tourism growth and its global reputation as a hub for business and leisure,” Chan said.

Also present at the ceremony were top executives from Mega City Builder, Capitol Hospitality Group, and Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, alongside Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.