KOTA KINABALU - Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister (Motac) Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing wants the state government to raise Sabah's safety standards for tourism following 13 accidents involving tourists here, including the capsizing of a boat and drowning near Timba-Timba Island in Kudat last July.
He said these matters need to be addressed urgently as they have tarnished Sabah’s world-renowned tourism industry.
Tiong also called on the Sabah government to monitor and improve the quality of local tourism.
“As Motac minister, I wish to stress that this is a pressing issue which must be dealt with so Malaysia’s tourism industry can also recover.
“It is disappointing for Sabah as a world popular tourism destination in Malaysia to have its image tarnished by these incidents,” he said in a statement.
Tiong said this following a special meeting to find ways to resolve the issues with the various authorities and tourism stakeholders here.
The meeting was attended by representatives from his ministry, Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry, the police, Sabah and Labuan Marine Department, Semporna District Office, Sabah Tourism Board and others.
Tiong made it clear he wants all of them to resolve the issues collectively.
“It is important for all departments, including stakeholders, and the industry to show their commitment to address this issue and immediately restore tourists' confidence,” he said.
Among the matters discussed were to ensure all tourist boats, operators and drivers are licensed; all safety guidelines are adhered to; insurance coverages are up to date; spot checks are done regularly; and dive masters are qualified and their credentials displayed.
“I wish to stress that the safety of tourists is the ministry’s utmost priority. We want full cooperation from stakeholders. A good experience will improve the confidence of tourists and, at the same time, potentially attract returning visitors, and as a result, stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities.
“It is therefore important for all parties to carry out their responsibilities collectively to prevent future accidents or unwanted incidents,” he said. – The Vibes, November 9, 2023
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