KOTA KINABALU – Sime Darby Plantation has been urged to allow locals around Kunak to develop and experience the interesting tourism spots located inside the company’s estates in the district.
Kunak assemblyman Norazlinah Arif said the company, which has accumulated profits from oil palm cultivation in Sabah, should return these sites to the locals.
“As we all know, the tourism sector in Sabah is on the road to recovery. We welcome the rural tourism development programme,” the Warisan rep said in her Sabah budget debate speech in the state assembly today.
“The State Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry should assist in my efforts to demand access to the sites located inside the estates.
“Sime Darby has made a good profit from Kunak and it is time for them to return the favour back to the local folks and allow the public to enjoy these tourism sites.”
The sites include a mud pool and hot water springs, a World War II-era tunnel built by the Japanese army, the Madai waterfall, and the Madai cave.
The area also has a marine sinkhole, sandy beach, and the Boheyan and Maganting islands, all world-class tourism spots if developed, she said. – The Vibes, December 7, 2021
