Sabah Aims to Become Global Training Hub for Nature Guides with WFTGA Recognition

Written By: Paramita Sarkar

Paramita Sarkar

Story-telling has been one of my favourite passtimes and when it is about travel, every other activity seems to fall short. I started my journey as a freelancer close to two decades ago having worked with various online portals inclduding Sambhar Stories, Thirllophilia and so on. Down the years, life has rewarded me with experiences, only adding to my writing practice. Even though teaching has been my primary profession and passion, choosing the job of a travel journalist was not quite dilemmatic when selected by the esteemed editorial team of Travel And Tour World. Knowing and letting readers know about the quaint yet intriguing desintions across the globe through writing is something I always cherish and put in my best endeavour to.

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February 25, 2025 01:54 GMT+5:30

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Sabah is positioning itself as a global training hub for nature interpretation guides, following recognition from the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA).

This initiative aligns with the state’s focus on culture, adventure, and nature-based tourism, reinforcing its status as a leader in sustainable ecotourism.

The Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, welcomed the WFTGA’s acknowledgment, stating that Sabah’s biodiversity, landscapes, and ecotourism appeal make it an ideal location for a specialized training centre.

He has requested the Sabah Tourist Guides Association (STGA) to explore this opportunity further with WFTGA.

Sabah’s Vision for Nature Guide Training

Sabah, home to renowned ecotourism destinations such as Kinabalu Park, Danum Valley, and the Kinabatangan River, boasts a rich natural heritage that provides an exceptional setting for nature interpretation training.

The state aims to develop a structured training program that enhances guiding standards and nurtures professional nature guides who can contribute to global conservation efforts.

The move to establish a dedicated nature interpretation training hub aligns with Malaysia’s national tourism strategies, emphasizing sustainable and responsible tourism.

For more information on the government’s commitment to ecotourism, visit the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC) and Sabah Tourism Board.

WFTGA Trainer Convention in Sabah

On Thursday, Datuk Joniston launched the first-ever WFTGA Trainer Convention in Sabah, hosted in collaboration with STGA. The convention brought together 100 participants from 27 countries, including virtual attendees, offering a platform for guides to innovate and adapt to the evolving tourism landscape.

During the event, WFTGA President Sebastian Frankenberger praised Sabah’s natural environment and ecotourism potential, highlighting the need for dedicated training centres focused on nature interpretation.

“Sabah is the perfect place to develop world-class nature interpretation guides. A dedicated training centre would be an excellent addition to our global network,” he said.

He also emphasized the importance of training in emerging topics, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), guiding standards, and inclusivity, ensuring the next generation of tour guides is well-equipped for the future.

Professional Development and Hands-On Learning

Participants at the convention engaged in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions, designed to elevate their expertise and leadership within the industry. To complement their learning, they joined immersive tours around Sabah, experiencing firsthand the state’s diverse ecotourism attractions.

Post-convention activities included river cruises, wildlife encounters, and guided excursions showcasing Sabah’s rich biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Sabah’s Growing Global Tourism Role

The recognition from WFTGA presents an opportunity for international collaboration, further elevating Sabah’s position as a premier ecotourism destination.

Datuk Joniston expressed optimism that WFTGA will support Sabah’s bid to host its biennial congress in the future, strengthening global partnerships in sustainable tourism development.

Other key figures attending the event included:

• STGA President Roger Rajah
• Sabah Tourism Board CEO Julinus Jeffery Jimit
• Sabah Convention Bureau CEO Noredah Othman
• Sabah Parks Director Dr. Maklarin Lakim
• STGA past president and convention chairperson Grace Leong