Sabah Makes History with First-Ever Direct Flight from Shenzhen to Tawau, Bringing Thirteen Hundred Luxury Travelers to Its Pristine Islands – A Game-Changer for Tourism!

Published on December 7, 2025

Sabah has made a significant leap in its tourism sector with the arrival of the first-ever direct charter flight from Shenzhen to Tawau, marking a pivotal moment for the region’s tourism growth. The flight, operated by Loong Air, arrived at Tawau Airport on December 6, carrying 143 passengers. This marks the beginning of a series of chartered flights designed to meet the growing demand for travel from southern China to the region.

The initiative is a joint effort between Shenzhen Kanghui Travel Service Co. Ltd. and Huan Ya Holidays (under Guangzhou Hailang International Travel Service Co. Ltd.), who have coordinated to operate a series of chartered flights throughout December. These flights will operate on the 6th, 10th, 14th, and 18th, specifically targeting the strong year-end demand from Chinese travelers.

Enhancing Connectivity for Tourism Growth

The introduction of these direct flights is an important step for Sabah, strengthening its ties with China, which remains the largest international source market for the region. With 534,975 arrivals from China recorded between January and September 2025, this figure represents a significant increase, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

As Sabah’s tourism continues to expand, the successful launch of the Shenzhen-Tawau charter series is seen as a promising development. The charter service provides valuable insights into the demand from southern China, which will help refine the region’s strategies for 2026, according to Sabah Tourism Board (STB) officials.

A Premium Tourism Experience for Chinese Travelers

The charter series is expected to bring over 1,300 visitors to Tawau and the renowned Semporna district, known for its world-class marine environment. Visitors will have the opportunity to stay at some of the region’s most luxurious resorts, such as the Kapalai Water Villas, Mabul Water Bungalows, and Mataking Reef Resort. These high-end overwater accommodations offer an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure.

Apart from staying in Semporna’s luxury resorts, many visitors will also explore the area’s seafood offerings and embark on island-hopping tours to the nearby islands, including Mabul, Kapalai, and Pom Pom, among others. These islands are famous for their pristine marine life, making Semporna a top choice for diving enthusiasts and those seeking to enjoy Malaysia’s natural beauty.

Strategic Partnerships to Support Sabah’s Tourism

Sabah Tourism Board continues to work closely with its travel partners in China to ensure the success of the charter service. The recent collaboration is an example of how international partnerships are instrumental in the growth of Sabah’s tourism sector. Through such initiatives, the region aims to remain competitive and visible in the global tourism market.

The collaboration also highlights the stable political environment, the ease of visa-free arrangements for Chinese travelers, and Malaysia’s reputation for offering diverse tourism experiences. These factors make Sabah an attractive destination for Chinese tourists, reinforcing the region’s appeal as a prime vacation spot in Southeast Asia.

Future Prospects: More Flights and Year-Round Connections

The Shenzhen-Tawau charter series is just the beginning of an ambitious plan to strengthen the region’s connectivity with China. Starting in January 2026, a new Hong Kong-Tawau charter service will be launched, operating twice weekly. This service aims to bring even more visitors to Tawau and Semporna, further bolstering the region’s tourism infrastructure and supporting local businesses.

The year-round charter from Hong Kong will play a crucial role in boosting international arrivals, allowing the region to capitalize on the growing demand for high-end tourism experiences. This development aligns perfectly with Sabah’s broader tourism goals, including preparations for Visit Malaysia 2026, a nationwide initiative aimed at attracting international visitors and further elevating the country’s tourism sector.

Sabah’s Growing Appeal to Southern China Tourists

The launch of the Shenzhen-Tawau charter service showcases Sabah’s strong commitment to enhancing its market presence in China. With destinations like Semporna drawing increasing attention, the region is well-positioned to capitalize on this upward trend. The charter flights provide an opportunity for local operators to tap into the growing demand for luxury resorts, diving tourism, and island-hopping experiences in this pristine part of Malaysia.

In addition to the newly introduced flights, Sabah is already well connected to other Chinese cities, including Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, Hong Kong, and Fuzhou, via Kota Kinabalu. These strong connections lay a solid foundation for future tourism growth, providing multiple entry points for Chinese tourists seeking to explore Sabah’s natural beauty, vibrant culture, and exceptional resorts.

Conclusion: Strengthening Sabah’s Tourism Future

The launch of direct charter flights from Shenzhen to Tawau is just one step in Sabah’s continued efforts to boost tourism arrivals from China and other international markets. The region’s unique appeal, from its world-class diving spots to its luxury resorts, continues to draw global visitors. As Sabah works towards enhancing its tourism infrastructure and strengthening international connections, the future looks bright for the state’s tourism sector, especially in the run-up to Visit Malaysia 2026.

With strong partnerships, strategic flight connections, and a focus on providing a high-end tourist experience, Sabah is poised to be a leading destination for travelers from southern China and beyond.