Sabah Tightens Tourism Safety And Licensing Standards To Ensure A Secure And Enjoyable Visitor Experience

Published on December 21, 2025

In a gesture that is aimed at taking care of the tourists and improving their overall experience, Sabah and its Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment has joined the forces of the federal Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture to work on the major problems that the region’s tourism sector faces. The gathering that took place on December 19, 2025, revolved around the issues of safety and licensing and the necessity to get rid of anything that could damage the image of Sabah as a top tourist destination.

Addressing Safety Concerns: A Priority for Sabah Tourism

The safety of visitors is a top concern for both state and federal tourism authorities. During the meeting, officials delved into several high-risk areas within the tourism sector that need immediate attention. One of the key areas discussed was the regulation of boat transport, which is crucial for tourists exploring Sabah’s stunning coastlines. Boat-related incidents, often attributed to lax safety standards, have been an ongoing issue, and tightening these protocols is expected to enhance security.

Another area under scrutiny is water sports, particularly scuba diving, which is a significant draw for international tourists. Experts noted that safety measures, including compliance with international standards, must be reinforced to prevent accidents. Additionally, with the growing popularity of adventure tourism, the importance of regulating such activities to ensure visitor welfare cannot be overstated.

Outdated Infrastructure: A Call for Immediate Improvements

Another pressing issue highlighted in the meeting was the condition of Sabah’s public tourism infrastructure. Many facilities, particularly older hotels, resorts, and recreational centres, are beginning to show signs of wear, which could pose a danger to visitors. Both ministries have agreed to take action to ensure that these facilities meet modern safety standards. Plans for refurbishment or even redevelopment of certain structures are expected to be considered to prevent any accidents that may damage Sabah’s appeal.

The state’s vibrant tourism sector, reliant on attractions like the renowned Kinabalu National Park, white sandy beaches, and diverse wildlife, has faced increasing pressure to upgrade its offerings. Sabah has long been a popular destination for eco-tourism, but with rising international and domestic visitor numbers, the need for robust infrastructure is more pressing than ever.

Tackling Licensing Issues and Unauthorised Operators

Perhaps one of the most controversial areas of the discussion was the issue of unlicensed tour operators and guides. The rise in illegal operators in Sabah has resulted in mismanagement, unregulated tours, and sometimes, unsafe travel experiences for tourists. Many tourists have unknowingly booked packages from operators who are not authorised, putting them at risk. The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture has already initiated measures to address this issue, and more stringent enforcement will follow to curb the growing concern.

Sabah’s tourism industry also faces challenges with misuse of licences, where operators continue to advertise unauthorised tours or activities under the guise of official permits. Both the federal and state governments are looking at creating a more streamlined licensing process that is less prone to exploitation.

Boosting Hotel and Resort Developments

In addition to addressing safety and licensing issues, the meeting also tackled the uncertainty surrounding hotel and resort developments in the state. With increasing demand for accommodations in popular tourist destinations like Kota Kinabalu, it is crucial that approvals for new developments are processed in a timely and efficient manner. Some developers have expressed frustration with the current approval process, which has been slow and inconsistent. However, both the Sabah and federal ministries have pledged to accelerate the approval of new hotel and resort projects to keep up with growing demand while ensuring these developments meet all necessary standards.

Collaboration to Safeguard Sabah’s Reputation

The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (Motac) has committed to working hand-in-hand with Sabah’s tourism authorities to implement these changes swiftly. Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing mentioned that both ministries are aligned in their efforts to boost Sabah’s reputation as a safe and credible destination. He also reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to supporting Sabah’s tourism sector, ensuring that both local and international tourists will feel secure during their visits.

In the coming months, both the state and federal tourism ministries will begin a series of joint campaigns aimed at promoting the new safety standards and licensing measures. These efforts will include educational outreach to both tourists and local operators, ensuring that the benefits of these reforms are clearly communicated to everyone involved in the tourism process.

Bottom Line

The implementation of these essential measures will put Sabah in a position to eventually be recognized as a top tourist destination in the world. In the first place, the government is going to be tightening up safety regulations, and at the same time, the licensing process will be made more efficient and the infrastructures will be improved. The reforms, in turn, will not only attract but also encourage the state’s commitment to safety and quality. These changes are anticipated to create a more secure, enjoyable, and sustainable tourism experience for all visitors.