Sabah records RM3.5 million in sales at MATTA Fair

17 September 2024

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah generated an impressive RM3.5 million in sales during the recent Matta Fair in Kuala Lumpur, showcasing the region's thriving tourism potential.

Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, chairman of the Sabah Tourism Board, highlighted that the Sabah CAN (Culture, Adventure, Nature) themed packages were particularly popular among attendees. “We sold over 200 CAN packages, with island hopping and the Mari Mari Cultural Village topping the list of favorites,” he noted.

Joniston, who also serves as the Assistant Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Environment, expressed optimism that this positive outcome will lead to increased tourist arrivals, further benefiting the state's economy.

He observed a growing interest in off-the-beaten-path destinations and community-based tourism experiences.

To capitalize on this trend, Sabah will host its inaugural Community-Based Tourism Fair at IOI Mall in Putrajaya from October 16-20 this year.

“This fair will provide visitors with the opportunity to explore unique community-based tourism packages and uncover hidden gems in Sabah’s rural areas,” he added.

Meanwhile, STB chief executive officer Julinus Jeffrey Jimit noted that Sabah also generated over RM6,000 in product sales at the Sabah Tourism Board Pavilion within three days.

The sales included Kadaiku (RM2,088.10), Sabah Tea (RM943), and Yit Foh Coffee (RM3,564.20).

Sabah Tea and Yit Foh Coffee are iconic agro products that enrich the offerings in Ranau and Tenom, while Kadaiku showcases a diverse range of unique handicrafts.

Julinus said promoting these products is essential, as they complement tourism efforts and align with Sabah's reputation for agrotourism.

“Our goal is to enhance awareness of Sabah's unique offerings, which not only supports local businesses but also enriches the overall visitor experience,” he said.

He also added the launch of the Top 5 Mountains in Sabah campaign at the Matta Fair would help position Sabah as the adventure hub of South East Asia and beyond.

The campaign highlights Malaysia’s highest peaks in Sabah: Mount Kinabalu, Mount Trus Madi, Mount Sinsing, Mount Tambuyukon and Mount Kaingaran.

At the recent Matta Fair, Sabah and Sarawak collaborated to promote "Discover Borneo" as a premier destination at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur.

A total of 33 travel agents from Sabah participated in the fair, which took place from September 6-8, showcasing the state's diverse range of tourism products to visitors.