Christina Liew
KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry is urging airlines to support the Sabah government’s promotion of the state’s east coast by making traveling more affordable.
Its minister, Christina Liew said her ministry was aware of the high charges imposed by some airlines during holidays and long weekends.
However, she acknowledged it as the business of the aviation industry.
Nevertheless, she said since the Sabah government was actively promoting the east coast of Sabah, she hoped that airlines would be supportive of the state’s move by making traveling more affordable.
“Increasing the price does not go hand in hand with the government’s plan,” she said.
At the same time, Christina also said the public could also book early, as early as three months prior to their travels, to attain cheaper fares.
The other option is to travel during non-peak seasons (non holiday season), she said.
She noted that online tickets to the east coast of Sabah are costlier during the long September weekend break.
She said in developing the east coast as a second tourism hub, Sabah needed the support from all sectors.
“As I have mentioned before, we need to develop the tourism industry throughout Sabah, not just Kota Kinabalu,” she said.
Christina meanwhile advised tour companies and operators to ensure the safety of their guests during the present bad weather.
She said although their role was to fulfill the interest/wishes of their customers, they should also be wary of the rough sea conditions that could affect boats and sea sports operations.
“We have no control of the weather. Hence, we must provide cautionary measures and ensure tourists have an enjoyable stay in Sabah,” she said.