KOTA KINABALU – Datuk Lee Chong Wei has been chosen by the Sabah government to promote the state’s tourism.
The former world number one badminton champion has been made Sabah Tourism Ambassador.
State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said that Lee’s global reputation bode well for Sabah, which is trying to revive its tourism sector.
“Chong Wei’s fans are spread all over the world, not just in Asian nations like China and South Korea, but also in Denmark and the United Kingdom.
“All these countries are Sabah’s traditional tourist countries, which could be the solution to the state’s tourism development, post pandemic,” said Jafry at a special luncheon ceremony in conjunction with Lee’s appointment today.
Jafry said that his ministry is optimistic that Sabah’s tourism sector will pick up following Lee’s appointment as state tourism ambassador.
Lee, when met by reporters said he hopes such recognition will help Sabah in improving its tourism, which has been badly hit by the pandemic.
“I know Sabah was a very popular tourist destination before the pandemic. Many asked me about Sabah when I went to China, Taiwan, and other countries.
“It's a beautiful place and hopefully I will bring my whole family for vacation here and at the same time promote the tourism destinations in Sabah,” said the 39-year-old.
The badminton legend was one of the recipients of the Justice of the Peace award from Sabah Governor Tun Juhar Mahiruddin.
He was conferred the award yesterday upon his arrival in the state alongside his family members.
Lee also presented a gift in the form of badminton rackets to Juhar when receiving his award at the state palace.
Sabah’s tourism generated billions of ringgit in tourism receipts over the past three decades before Covid-19 pulled the brakes on the industry. – The Vibes, October 27, 2021
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