Kota kinabalu: Sabah continues to improve its tourism sector with the development of several new hotels, including in Kota Kinabalu, Papar, and Semporna, which are expected to add an additional 2,740 rooms to existing inventory. Sabah chief minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said the development proved investors' confidence in the potential of the state's tourism sector and boosts the industry's capabilities and resilience.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the new hotels are also expected to create hundreds of jobs for locals, not only in the hospitality sector but also in supply chain, services, and related businesses. Local suppliers, restaurants, and tourist attractions will enjoy huge benefits. Besides economic benefits, the development of the new hotels will raise Sabah's profile as a major destination.

Hajiji stated that the new developments would attract conferences, corporate events, and tourists who wish to enjoy the best offers, thereby strengthening the economy through sustainable tourism. The statement was made after officiating a new hotel in the state capital.

Hajiji noted that the Sabah Tourism, Culture, and Environment Ministry is proactively rearranging strategies to ensure that the state remains a major destination and is able to attract tourists from all over the world. Sabah is also seeking partnerships with global airlines to increase connectivity, develop premium tourism products, raise its service standards, and organise high-value events.

The chief minister further added, "Through this effort, we will place Sabah as a major destination and a dynamic business hub."