KOTA KINABALU – The Sabah government has urged the Tourism, Arts, and Culture Ministry’s enforcement team to investigate unregistered travel agents who have been offering cheaper travel prices in Semporna.
State Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said his ministry is viewing the matter seriously, and will send out enforcement teams to take action before further damage is done to Semporna’s tourism industry.
He said this is in light of a report made by the Semporna Professional Divers Association that claimed there have been many unregistered travel agents offering services for half the prices set for travel packages in Semporna.
“These irresponsible actions by unregistered travel agents have caused registered tourism players to lose money, as tourists would use the cheaper services.
“Not only are the registered agents affected, but this also involves the safety of tourists.
“These unregistered agents have not undergone skills training, including those needed for emergency management,” he said.
He reminded all registered agents to maintain the usual prices of the travel packages they offer, and to not take the opportunity from the recovering domestic tourism – which is growing at the moment – to increase prices.
Before the Covid-19 pandemic, Semporna has been a favourite travel destination for domestic and international tourists for its world-class diving spots and beautiful islands. – The Vibes, November 27, 2021
