Joniston handing over the People’s Housing Project (PPR) key to Yanim Linggou (3rd left) of Kampung Balabakan Kiulu and Diana Sabin (3rd right) of Kampung Taginambur.
TUARAN: Plans are underway to set up a Tourism Information Centre in Pekan Nabalu to capitalise on its strategic location and the enthusiastic participation of villagers in community-based tourism (CoBT) in the surrounding villages.
Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said having Pekan Nabalu Tourism Information Centre would help promote and enhance the overall tourism experience for visitors.
“The Ministry recognises the significance of Pekan Nabalu as a strategic location and believes that the centre will play a pivotal role in enhancing the tourism infrastructure and offerings in the area.
“Moreover, CoBT has been gaining momentum with the active involvement of local villagers. The tourism centre can further strengthen this engagement, providing valuable information and services to tourists planning to explore the area’s natural wonders, adventure opportunities, and culture,” he said.
Joniston was speaking at the launching of RM250,000 Dewan Muhibbah Kampung Taginambur in conjunction with the PDM Taginambur Kaamatan celebration here today.
Pekan Nabalu, located within the Kiulu state constituency, is in the heartland of the KadazanDusun indigenous community.
It is a popular stopping point for travellers to the Kinabalu Park and an ideal starting point for visitors to explore the eco, cultural and agricultural tourism attractions and activities in the area.
Joniston, who is Sabah Tourism Board (STB) Chairman and Kiulu Assemblyman, said the tourism centre initiative aligns with the plans to organise a Pineapple and Fruit Festival at Pekan Nabalu and the vision of promoting rural tourism, particularly in the Kiulu and Kadamaian area.
“The tourism centre will facilitate access to nature-based, farms, plantations and agro-tourism sites, offering visitors a unique opportunity to learn about local farming practices, participate in fruit picking, and sample fresh produce,” he said.
At the event, Joniston handed over the People’s Housing Project (PPR) key to two villagers, Yanim Linggou of Kampung Balabakan Kiulu and Diana Sabin of Kampung Taginambur.
Also present were Kiulu Assistant District Officer Justin Ginduk and Kiulu People Development Leader Golubi Guntarek.
