KUALA LUMPUR: The Sabah Pavilion has consistently been one of the busiest, with visitors swarming to make inquiries and purchase travel packages throughout the three-day MATTA Travel Fair here.
There were 45 travel and tour agents from Sabah at the travel expo, making it the state with the largest presence.
Sabah Tourism Board (STB) Chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said the positive reception Sabah had received was especially encouraging given that many visitors are ready to buy package deals on the spot.
“While Semporna, Kundasang and Kinabatangan remain popular destinations among consumers, they have also inquired about other attractions in other parts of the state.
“This is a good indicator that consumers are interested to see more of Sabah to have unique experiences that are distinctive,” he said.
Today, Joniston, who is also Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister, made his round at the Sabah booths and spoke to travel agents and consumers who are planning trips to the state.
Some have bought packages to Kundasang, Kota Belud, Lahad Datu, Semporna and Sandakan to dive, observe wildlife and experience local culture, among others.
Yesterday, Joniston hosted an engaging dinner with news editors, travel bloggers and influencers.
The engagement aims to foster closer ties with the peninsula-based media community and to share up-to-date information on all things Sabah, with a focus on the tourism industry.
