By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: Authorities and non-governmental organisations have been encouraged to strengthen collaboration to promote tourism products in the state.
Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai cited cooperation between the Sabah Tourism Board (STB), Kota Kinabalu City Hall (DBKK) and non-governmental organisations as key to fostering inclusivity for the benefit of local communities.
Joniston, who is also STB chairman, said Kota Kinabalu aspires to be a smart city. It is therefore important that villages within and around the coastal capital remain clean and appealing to attract visitors.
He said community-driven initiatives can play a key role in beautifying villages while highlighting local culture, creativity and environmental awareness.
He cited the Meraki Daat Initiative in Pulau Gaya as an example, noting its collaboration with DBKK and STB in working with islanders to improve village surroundings as a tourism product.
“Meraki Daat Initiative’s work with the community to improve the village environment demonstrates how grassroots initiatives can contribute positively to the city’s tourism landscape,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Meraki Daat Initiative team, led by its president Michelle De La Harpe, briefed Joniston on the progress of its projects on the island.
Michelle expressed appreciation to STB for providing financial assistance for a painting project at a volleyball court on the island, which was newly designed as part of a community competition organised in December last year.
To date, the organisation has completed a 130-metre walkway constructed using recycled marine debris, stretching from the jetty to the volleyball court area.
The walkway project has received recognition from the United Nations Development Programme for its innovative environmental approach.
Also present were DBKK Solid Waste Department director Leong Tse Fui and STB Product Division senior manager Effendi Mahany, who discussed strengthening collaboration to support community-driven tourism and environmental programmes.
Joniston receiving a souvenir made from recycled materials from Michelle as Leong (second left), and Effendi (left), look on.
