KUALA LUMPUR, March 25, 2024: Sabah took center stage at the MATTA Fair, held from March 22 to 24 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), advocating for camping and outdoor experiences as integral parts of tourism in the region.
With nearly 150,000 travel enthusiasts flocking to the event to discover travel deals and uncover new destinations, Sabah Assistant Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister cum Chairman of Sabah Tourism Board (STB), Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, emphasized the rising global trend of “healing trips.” These trips, he noted, signify a growing demand for immersive adventure experiences coupled with relaxation and rejuvenation.
“Sabah has embraced this trend by positioning itself as a healing destination with a focus on camping,” explained Datuk Joniston Bangkuai. “With diverse camping sites ranging from Kadamaian and Kundasang to Kokol Hill and the beaches of Kudat, along with rural retreats like the Rundum Highlands in Tenom, Sabah offers a plethora of landscapes, vistas, and cultural experiences, catering to a wide range of interests.”
He further emphasized the significance of community-based tourism, noting that most camping sites in Sabah are empowered by local communities, showcasing the success of this collaborative initiative.
At the 54th edition of the MATTA Fair, a total of 22 travel and tour agents from Sabah participated. The fair, held biannually in March and September, serves as a pivotal platform for travel enthusiasts to explore and plan their adventures.
Leading the charge at the Sabah zone were 10 booths organized by the Sabah Tourism Board, offering enticing incentives such as travel rebates of up to MYR150 with a single receipt from a purchased Sabah tour package. Additionally, Glamping_KK, a Sabah-based camping gear rental provider, was invited to showcase their offerings to potential visitors, further enhancing the camping experience.
To add a personal touch, local Sabah content creators and adventure enthusiasts, including @sesat_in_Malaysia and @rosesabahlady, engaged with visitors during the interactive Locco Ajak Borak session, sharing their firsthand experiences and insights into exploring Sabah’s natural wonders.
Commenting on the significance of the MATTA Fair, Datuk Joniston stated, “This fair holds considerable importance in Malaysia’s domestic travel landscape, and Sabah remains committed to actively participating. We will closely monitor domestic travel trends to ensure that our destination continues to offer exciting experiences.”
Julinus Jeffery Jimit, Chief Executive Officer of Sabah Tourism Board, was also present at the event, underscoring the region’s dedication to promoting sustainable tourism and fostering memorable experiences for travelers.