Rising airfares could undermine Visit Sabah 2027 tourism push, says former state Matta chief

KOTA KINABALU, Sept 3 — Rising airfares and fuel costs could pose a threat to Sabah's tourism push for the upcoming Visit Sabah 2027, according to Mohd Azlan Saleh Abd Salam, former chief of the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) Sabah. Azlan cautioned that high travel expenses might entice tourists to opt for other destinations in the region offering more competitive pricing.

He emphasized that this issue should be given special consideration during school holidays, festive seasons, and peak travel times when airfares play a significant role in tourists' destination choices. Azlan also pointed out that escalating petrol and diesel prices were placing additional pressure on tourism operators, such as tour bus, van, and boat companies.

He suggested that the government explore targeted fuel subsidies or assistance for licensed tourism operators, particularly those operating tour buses, vans, and tourist boats. Any aid should be transparently administered with rigorous monitoring to ensure that the advantages result in more stable tourism package prices. Azlan warned that Sabah faces competition not only from other Malaysian destinations but also from neighboring countries like Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

He stressed the necessity of strong promotion backed by sufficient and affordable air connectivity, warning that substantial investments in Visit Sabah 2027 could be undermined if tourists choose other destinations due to high travel costs. Tourism is a critical income generator and economic driver for Sabah, contributing RM13.7 billion in 2024, accounting for 12% of the state's economy, and providing employment for approximately 387,600 people, according to Azlan.

He urged the government to collaborate with industry stakeholders and utilize actual tourism-sector data when formulating measures to tackle airfares and operating costs. Azlan concluded by noting that addressing airfares and fuel costs promptly could position Visit Sabah 2027 as a crucial catalyst for Sabah's economic growth. The high airfares are also impacting Sabahans and other Malaysians traveling between Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia.

The state government has reportedly sought federal intervention following reports of one-way fares from Tawau to Kuala Lumpur soaring up to RM1,000, particularly affecting students studying in the peninsula. Additionally, families traveling between Sabah and the peninsula for work or family reasons are also affected by these soaring fares.