Joniston (left) launching The Elephants of Borneo. – Edmund Samunting/STB
KOTA KINABALU: Continued efforts to document and publish updated information on Sabah’s wildlife, culture and natural attractions are important in keeping the State’s stories relevant and accessible to wider audiences, said Sabah Tourism Board (STB) Chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
He said new publications and updated editions of existing works could offer fresh perspectives, reflect current knowledge and complement STB’s promotional efforts by giving potential visitors more reasons to discover Sabah.
“Sabah has a wealth of stories worth sharing, from its cultural traditions and wildlife to its landscapes and lesser-known destinations.
“We should continue to document these stories and make them accessible to wider audiences,” he said at the launch of The Elephants of Borneo at the Sabah State Library on Thursday.
Co-authored by 1StopBorneo Wildlife senior conservation officer Yulinda Wahyuni and other contributors, the book provides insights into the Borneo Elephant, including its habitat and conservation in Sabah.
Joniston, who is also Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister, said future publications could explore other subjects, including Sabah’s diverse cultures, endemic bird species and lesser-known natural attractions.
He cited Kiulu as an example, highlighting its network of rivers, tributaries and streams, as well as numerous suspension bridges that offer interesting perspectives on the area’s natural landscape and community-based tourism experiences.
He said such stories could help draw attention to destinations that may be less familiar to visitors and broaden their understanding of what Sabah has to offer.
Joniston added that STB would continue to support and complement the efforts of relevant agencies, organisations and industry players in promoting Sabah’s wildlife, culture and natural attractions, particularly in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2027.
The launch was attended by 1StopBorneo Wildlife Founder Shavez Cheema, Bringing Back Our Rare Animals (BORA) Chief Executive Officer Datuk Dr John Payne, Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Chairman Alex Chong Vui Loong, and Sabah Wildlife Department Head of Conservation and Corporate Education Nur’Ain Ampuan Acheh.
