Liew (sixth left) with UK guests and Sabah delegation members
LONDON: ‘An Evening with the Minister’, hosted by the Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew, was a gathering of esteemed tourism agents and industry partners from Sabah and the United Kingdom for them to get to know each other and to share experiences.
It was a prelude to the opening of World Travel Mart (WTM) and launching of the ‘Explore Sabah’ Campaign by the Minister on Wednesday.
Liew is leading a Sabah delegation to the WTM 2024.
Welcoming the guests on Monday night at the Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill, she said the occasion was a valuable opportunity for them to connect, share ideas, and explore how we can promote the treasures of Sabah together.
Liew introduced Sabah as a land of incredible diversity, with breathtaking beaches, ancient rainforests, and a rich cultural heritage.
She reckoned that what truly makes Sabah special is not just its natural beauty but also the warmth of its people, the richness of their traditions, and the unique stories that create unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
“We are gathered here as partners, each of us playing a vital role in shaping Sabah’s story on the global stage. It is our shared vision and commitment that will help us attract more visitors seeking authentic and transformative experiences.
“Tonight, let’s strengthen our bonds, share insights, discover new ways to tell Sabah’s story, and find ways to work together in creating unforgettable journeys for our visitors,” said Liew.
The Minister noted that the commitment of friends from the UK to exploring Sabah’s potential shows that they and their Sabah counterparts have much in common in their passion for sharing their natural wonders and cultural heritage.
“Through our partnerships, we can learn about each other’s markets, understand the changing needs of travellers, and work together to exceed their expectations,” she said.
Liew acknowledged that UK friends’ support, insights, and collaboration mean a great deal to Sabah and to its tourism community.
“Let’s continue to work hand in hand to make Sabah a destination that leaves a mark on every visitor’s heart,” she said.
The Minister met up with authors Major John Tulloch who launched his book “The Borneo Graveyard (1941-1945)” in Sabah last year, Sandakan-born Quentin Philips (Birds of Borneo & Mammals of Borneo), and Honor Philips (Butterflies of Borneo).
Liew was also introduced to Malaysian-born Minister of the Crown in the Government Whip Office, The Lord Leong CBE, Deputy Director of Tourism Malaysia London, Siti Syazalena Amir Sharifuddin, Founder of Global Birding Tim Appleton, Matrade Trade Commissioner Iszam Khail Ishak, Founding Editor of Wanderlust Lyn Hughes, and publisher John Beaufoy.
The Sabah delegation comprised Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister and Chairman of Sabah Tourism Board (STB) Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, Ministry’s Permanent Secretary Josie Lai, Sri Pelancongan Sabah Chairman Ken Pan Ying On, STB Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jeffery Jimit and Sabah Parks representative Yassin Miki, among others.
Also present were KDCA Women Chairwoman Datuk Joanna Kitingan, Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan 2024 Hyellne Danius, Sabah Cultural Ambassador Stanley Missun, long flute player Payuki and members of Sabahan Abroad UK.
Sabah Co-Exhibitors participating in WTM 2024 under the Sabah Pavilion consist of Asia Top Team Travels Sdn Bhd, Borneo Sandakan Tours Sdn Bhd, Nasalis Larvaturs Tours Sdn Bhd, Rustic Borneo Travel Sdn Bhd, Borneo Nature Tours Sdn Bhd, Sutera Sanctuary Lodges, Sepilok Tropical Wildlife Tour and Travel Sdn Bhd, Borneo Escapade Tours, Borneo Adventure Sdn Bhd, Borneo Eco Tours, Crystal Quest Sdn Bhd, Outreach Borneo and KDCA.
