Sabah Aims to become a training hub for nature guides

20 February 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah has been recognised by the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) as a prime location for an international training centre dedicated to nature interpretation guides.

Assistant Minister for Tourism, Culture and Environment Datuk Joniston Bangkuai stated that this recognition aligns perfectly with Sabah’s commitment to promoting culture, adventure, and nature tourism.

He further expressed the state’s readiness to explore the potential of becoming a dedicated training hub for nature guides and has requested the Sabah Tourist Guides Association (STGA) to engage in further discussions with the WFTGA on this initiative.

“Sabah boasts exceptional biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and significant ecotourism appeal, making it an ideal choice for training centres,” he remarked.

“With a structured plan, we can firmly establish Sabah as a leader in nature-based tourist guide training,” he added.

On Friday, Joniston inaugurated the inaugural WFTGA Trainer Convention, hosted in Sabah in collaboration with the STGA.

The convention attracted 100 participants from 27 countries, including virtual attendees.

As the chairman of the Sabah Tourism Board, Joniston indicated that the event offers guides the opportunity to adapt and innovate.

“For our industry to flourish, we must commit to ongoing learning and evolution. This convention represents a vital step towards a more robust and sustainable future for tourism.

“The WFTGA’s recognition of our potential presents a valuable opportunity for collaboration, and as a developing region, I hope the federation will support destinations like Sabah and consider us as a future host for its biennial congress,” Joniston remarked.

Earlier, WFTGA President Sebastian Frankenberger praised Sabah’s natural environment as an exceptional setting for cultivating nature interpretation guides.

“What beautiful nature you have... Sabah is the perfect place to focus on nature interpretation.

“We require diverse training centres, and one dedicated to nature interpretation would be a fantastic addition,” he stated.

Frankenberger underscored the importance of proper training, highlighting topics such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), enhancing guiding standards, and promoting inclusivity within the industry.

Participants engaged in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions designed to foster their growth as industry leaders.

To enhance their learning experience, participants embarked on tours across Sabah, gaining firsthand exposure to the state's tourism offerings, with post-convention activities including river cruises and wildlife encounters.

Attendees included STGA President Roger Rajah, Sabah Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit, Sabah Convention Bureau Chief Executive Officer Noredah Othman, Sabah Parks Director Dr. Maklarin Lakim, and STGA Past President Grace Leong, who also served as the organising chairperson.