Hajiji (centre), TP Group Executive Chairman and Managing Director Tan Sri Paul Lim (left) and TP Group CEO Datuk Peter Chu (right) showing thumbs up after the plaque-signing ceremony to mark the opening of Sheraton Kota Kinabalu.
KOTA KINABALU: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor is confident Sabah’s tourism sector will remain resilient despite challenges arising from the ongoing Middle East conflict.
He acknowledged that businesses would need to take bold and decisive measures to navigate uncertainties stemming from the situation.
“This crisis will fundamentally reshape how we operate. Every sector will be affected, which means we must adapt and innovate in our business practices.
“Yet, the future remains bright. Despite these obstacles, I am encouraged by the strong investor confidence in Sabah’s tourism sector,” he said when officiating at the official opening of Sheraton Kota Kinabalu, here, today.
Hajiji said the State Tourism Ministry is proactively refining its strategies to address emerging challenges and ensure Sabah remains a premier, resilient and globally attractive destination.
He said the State Government is also strengthening Sabah’s competitiveness through strategic initiatives to ensure seamless visitor experiences.
These include forging partnerships with international airlines to enhance connectivity, developing premium tourism products, improving service standards to meet global benchmarks, and hosting high-value events.
“Through these efforts, we aim to position Sabah not only as a leading holiday destination but also as a dynamic business hub,” he said.
Hajiji also noted that several new hotels are in the pipeline or nearing completion, including Avani and Fairfield by Marriott, Grandis at The Peninsula in Kota Kinabalu, Club Med in Kuala Penyu, InterContinental in Papar and Wyndham in Semporna.
“These developments will add some 2,740 rooms to our existing inventory, reflecting the resilience and optimism of industry players even in uncertain times,” he said.
He said the economic spillover from these developments would be significant.
“We are looking at hundreds of job opportunities, not only within the hotels but also across supply chains, services and related sectors. Local suppliers, restaurants and tourist attractions will benefit.
“Beyond that, these new hotels will elevate Sabah’s profile as a premier destination, attracting conferences, corporate events and high-value travellers, thereby strengthening the State’s economy through sustained tourism revenue,” he said.
Hajiji said the opening of the RM300 million Sheraton Kota Kinabalu marked a significant milestone as Sabah capitalises on the opportunities presented by Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
“This momentum will be carried through to 2027 and will serve as a catalyst for our continued preparations towards Visit Sabah Year 2027,” he said.
He expressed confidence that Sheraton Kota Kinabalu would play a key role in showcasing Sabah’s rich culture, heritage and warm hospitality.
“It also sends a clear message that Sabah is open for business and ready to compete on the global stage,” he said.
