Sabah Launches Landmark Ship Hotel Project to Transform Tourism and Business in Kota Kinabalu, Here’s All You Need to Know

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Kota Kinabalu: Toursim and conventions has been boosted for the state of Sabah with the announcement of a new RM130 million waterfront development project which was the highlight of the BigSabah Sale 2025 opening. The “Ship hotel” project is the first of its kind in East Asia and places a mark on the development of Kota Kinabalu as a premier global destination for business and leisure.

Major Development Agreement Signed for Sabah’s First “Ship Hotel”

A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed between D’Heritage Sdn Bhd and Nomad Hospitality Group Sdn Bhd for the construction of the region’s first-ever “Ship Hotel.” The hotel will be located on the waterfront near the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) in Kota Kinabalu, marking a pivotal moment for the state’s growing tourism and convention industries.

This unique “Ship Hotel” will feature 216 rooms and world-class facilities, making it a major draw for international visitors and positioning Sabah as a leader in the global tourism market. The project, valued at RM130 million, will not only add to the city’s luxury offerings but will also strengthen the region’s appeal as a premier marina and lifestyle destination.

According to Datuk Seri Rosmawati Lasuki, Chief Executive Officer of SICC, the “Ship Hotel” project will transform the waterfront into a vibrant hub for tourists, setting a new benchmark for tourism excellence in Sabah. “This project will elevate the SICC waterfront into a world-class marina destination,” she stated, emphasizing that it would be a symbol of Sabah’s commitment to enhancing its tourism sector.

A Boost to Sabah’s Tourism and MICE Industries

The new development is also seen as a vote of confidence in Sabah’s meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) industry. With the increased focus on business tourism, the region’s infrastructure development, including the SICC, is expected to attract more international events, conventions, and corporate meetings. The “Ship Hotel” is expected to attract visitors seeking both business and leisure experiences, blending world-class accommodations with access to the stunning natural beauty of Sabah.

The signing of the agreement coincided with the official opening of BigSabah Sale 2025, an event that has grown into a prominent regional trade fair, attracting exhibitors and visitors from across Southeast Asia and beyond. The collaboration between the private sector, local government, and international partners underscores the growing importance of Sabah as a hub for tourism and business in the East ASEAN region.

BigSabah Sale 2025: A Landmark Event for Sabah’s Tourism

BigSabah Sale 2025, which runs from October 31 to November 2, is showcasing the best of Sabah’s business, tourism, and cultural sectors. This year’s event saw the largest participation to date, with 652 exhibition booths and exhibitors from 13 countries, including Indonesia, China, South Korea, Brunei, India, Thailand, and Egypt. The event reflects the increasing recognition of Sabah as a regional gateway for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.

Organizers expect more than 50,000 visitors over the weekend, with more than 15,000 attendees on the first day alone. The event is designed to promote not just Sabah’s products and services but also its potential as a leading destination for business tourism. The presence of key international players, including KADIN Indonesia and the Department of International Trade and Promotion (DITP) from Thailand, highlights the global interest in what Sabah has to offer.

Key Features of BigSabah Sale 2025: Trade, Culture, and Networking

This year’s BigSabah Sale has expanded its focus with several new additions, including the BigSabah Trade Connect platform. Supported by MATRADE Sabah, Sabah Halal Hub, and Jetsin Sdn Bhd, the platform is aimed at helping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) expand their export reach. This B2B platform allows local businesses to connect with international buyers, fostering valuable partnerships and opening new markets.

In addition to the trade component, the event also features community-focused programs such as the Women in Business & Style initiative and the BigSabah Culinary Studio. These programs offer valuable opportunities for young entrepreneurs and culinary talents to showcase their skills and gain exposure on a regional stage.

Furthermore, the Sabah Agro-Fisheries Forum, which made its debut this year, brought together regional experts to discuss sustainable agriculture, aquaculture, and food systems. This emphasis on sustainability and innovation is in line with Sabah’s vision of becoming a regional leader in responsible tourism and business practices.

Sabah as a Regional Business Hub: Connecting the World

The success of BigSabah Sale 2025 underscores Sabah’s growing role as a business hub and a gateway to East ASEAN and beyond. The event not only highlights the region’s thriving tourism sector but also its potential to host large-scale international business events, conferences, and exhibitions. The combination of business networking, trade, and cultural showcases makes BigSabah Sale a valuable platform for promoting the region as a global destination for both leisure and business travel.

Rosmawati Lasuki remarked, “BigSabah Sale has become a bridge that connects local producers with international buyers. It shows that Sabah can host events that not only attract visitors but also open markets and build lasting partnerships.” The success of such events strengthens Sabah’s position as a key player in the ASEAN tourism and business landscape.

International Collaboration and Cultural Exchange

One of the key highlights of BigSabah Sale 2025 is the significant international participation. Delegates from countries such as China, India, Brunei, the Philippines, and Egypt have joined the event, contributing to a vibrant exchange of ideas, culture, and business opportunities. The event serves as a testament to Sabah’s potential as a platform for global collaboration, with exhibitors and visitors alike recognizing the region’s unique position as a tourism and trade hub.

The presence of international organizations and trade representatives further emphasizes the role of such events in fostering cross-border cooperation. For example, KADIN Indonesia and DITP Thailand are actively involved in shaping the future of tourism and business in the region. This international collaboration ensures that Sabah remains at the forefront of global tourism development.

Sabah’s Future as a Sustainable and Innovative Tourism Destination

With its continued investments in tourism infrastructure, such as the SICC and the upcoming “Ship Hotel” project, Sabah is well on its way to becoming a world-class destination for both leisure and business tourism. The BigSabah Sale 2025 reflects the region’s growing appeal as a hub for trade, culture, and tourism. By combining innovation, sustainability, and a strong commitment to community engagement, Sabah is positioning itself as a key player in the global tourism market.

As Sabah continues to invest in its tourism infrastructure and cultural offerings, the region is set to attract more visitors and international business partners. The ongoing success of events like BigSabah Sale and the development of unique projects like the “Ship Hotel” will help shape the future of Sabah as a dynamic and sustainable tourism destination.

Sabah’s Growing Impact on Global Tourism and Business

Sabah is at the peak of the revival of its tourism and business industries, thanks to significant investments and collaborations with foreign players. The completion of the RM130 million “Ship Hotel” as well as the BigSabah Sale 2025 further confirmed its developing status as a global destination for leisure and business travelers. With its rich culture, pioneering tourism products, and increasing significance as a business center in the region, there is no doubt that Sabah will continue to increase its appeal to tourists and investors for the foreseeable future.