Flippers crossed: Sabah dive operators hope to resurface with a splash

KOTA KINABALU – Having suffered a thrashing due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Sabah diving tour operators are keeping their flippers crossed that ongoing vaccination efforts will help revive travel and bring back patrons.

Downbelow Marine & Wildlife Adventures Sdn Bhd managing director Richard Swann said the second half of the year will definitely be better for the local diving industry.

“The industry is struggling, generally, as it heavily relies on travellers and tourism.

“Local demand is still there, but it is very price-sensitive. In any case, we are hoping interstate travel will resume soon, which will help, too.”

The Platinum Professional Association of Diving Instructors course director said the tourism industry has to undergo a shake-up, and will need to adapt its business models by moving focus away from mass travellers to small, personal niche markets.

“It will take some years to win back mainstream traveller confidence.

“However, Sabah is a very special place that has huge potential. We just need to focus on the correct markets, and I am sure we’ll see a speedy and strong recovery.”

Swann said he hopes the government will accept “vaccine passports”, as this will let immunised dive enthusiasts travel to Sabah.

He said people are inquiring about diving following the government’s announcement that recreational sea activities are allowed after the completion of the movement control order (MCO).

“We are seeing strong initial interest as people have been locked away at home, and are keen to get out and engage with nature.

“We are running daily trips and a special promotion, and have many pre-booked divers. Our discounted rates are attractive to the local community, so the numbers are quite steady.”

He said the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park was closed during the MCO period, but, since the official opening of Sabah Parks, activities have resumed.

However, there are some challenges.

“The new standard operating procedures, particularly for boat travel times and passenger numbers (50% less capacity), are proving to be challenging, as boats contribute to our biggest overhead costs. It is difficult to see profits due to these rules.”

The ongoing nationwide ban on interstate crossings continues to take its toll on the country’s tourism industry, despite the easing of travel restrictions and green light given to inter-district travel in states except Sabah since March 5.

Under the recovery MCO, recreational water activities in the state are allowed effective March 15, but subject to strict SOPs.

Sabah Covid-19 spokesman Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun said water activities, such as scuba diving, snorkelling and fishing, are allowed at 50% passenger capacity for vessels and with 1m distancing observed between individuals. – The Vibes, April 3, 2021