Sabah Inspects Key Jetties and Facilities in Kota Kinabalu to Improve its Safety and Infrastructure, Supporting the Regional Tourism Growth

Published on December 7, 2025

Datuk Jafry Ariffin, Sabah’s Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister, paid a critical inspection visit on several key tourism jetties in Kota Kinabalu on December 5, 2025, assessing their condition, safety, and preparedness for the increasing tourist traffic in Sabah, Malaysia. Included in the inspection are Jesselton Point, Sabah Parks Jetty, and the Suria Capital-owned South Jetty, currently under construction with an investment of RM20 million. The visit reflects the ongoing effort to improve tourism infrastructure in the region so that it remains competitive for international tourists.

The Malaysian government has put emphasis on infrastructure development in the tourism sector, part of the broad strategy the country is pursuing in attracting global tourists, especially in areas like Sabah, which has gained a prime position in Southeast Asia’s eco-tourism and adventure tourist markets. As visitor numbers increase, so too does the need for improving facilities to enhance visitor safety, comfort, and overall experience.

Economic Impact and Growth Through Enhanced Infrastructure

The upgrades to tourism jetties and facilities in Sabah will have a significant economic impact, as the region continues to attract international visitors for luxury cruises, adventure tours, and cultural experiences. With increased international arrivals, particularly from China, Europe, and the GCC countries, the tourism infrastructure is being aligned to meet the needs of a diverse range of travelers, including those coming by sea.

The tourism sector plays a crucial role in Sabah’s economy, and the improved jetties and transport services will directly benefit local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, transport services, and local tours. By facilitating smoother access to Sabah’s top destinations, such as Kota Kinabalu, Semporna, and the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, these upgrades will encourage longer stays and higher spending from international tourists.

Moreover, Sabah’s growing appeal as a tourism hub for southeast Asia will continue to generate job opportunities in tourism-related services, further boosting the local economy and providing sustainable income for residents. The increased demand for services, such as transportation, guiding and hospitality, ensures that the tourism sector remains a strong pillar for Sabah’s economic development.

Supporting Malaysia’s Role in Regional Cruise Tourism

Cruise tourism has become a vital part of Sabah’s tourism growth. The South Jetty development, in particular, aims to improve facilities for luxury cruise ships, enhancing the region’s capacity to handle increasing numbers of passengers and providing tourists with convenient access to the cruise ports. The completion of the South Jetty, with its high operational capacity, will not only cater to tourists arriving by sea but will also support the expansion of the cruise tourism market in the Red Sea region.

As Sabah continues to improve its port infrastructure, the state is positioned to expand its role in regional cruise tourism, attracting more international ships and passengers. Cruise operators will find Sabah’s ports increasingly attractive for itinerary stops, helping to bring higher volumes of international tourists to the region, boosting local tourism businesses, and contributing to tourism revenue growth.

Long-Term Impact: Strengthening Sabah’s Position as a Leading Tourism Destination

Looking to the future, the tourism infrastructure upgrades in Sabah, combined with the ongoing collaboration between government and private sector stakeholders, will create a solid foundation for sustainable tourism growth. As global tourism trends shift toward eco-friendly, adventure, and cultural tourism, Sabah will continue to grow as a key destination for visitors seeking authentic experiences in Southeast Asia.

By ensuring safe, comfortable, and accessible travel experiences, Sabah will continue to appeal to high-value tourists, including those seeking luxury cruises, nature-based tourism, and local culture. The state’s investment in infrastructure and regional connectivity will drive tourism demand, supporting the local economy and creating employment opportunities for residents.

A Bright Future for Sabah’s Tourism Sector

The inspection conducted by Datuk Jafry Ariffin was a step toward ensuring that Sabah’s tourism sector grew sustainably. Due to its already improved infrastructural capacity for hosting tours, efforts to invest in sustainable travel, and emphasis on involving the host community, Sabah has better prospects in the expansion of its tourism industry and will remain relevant to international tourists. All these aspects are part of key matters concerning this region’s economic plans for long-term development and exposure in the global arena of competitiveness as one of Southeast Asia’s major tourist destinations. By embracing innovation in the tourism field, Sabah will keep enhancing visitors’ experiences, remaining a leading tourism hub for years to come.