By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is looking to strengthen tourism and cultural ties with India.
The state hopes to build on the longstanding friendship between the two countries and explore new areas of cooperation.
Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin said this when hosting a dinner for Indian High Commissioner to Malaysia Somnath Ghosh and his wife, Dr Anindita Ghosh, at a resort.
Somnath is on an official visit to Sabah from Nov 4 to 7.
Jafry described the occasion as an opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations, particularly in tourism, cultural exchanges and people-to-people connections.
“India is an important tourism market with tremendous potential for Sabah.
“We see opportunities to strengthen our engagement, encourage greater visitor arrivals and introduce more Indian travellers to Sabah’s natural attractions, rich cultural heritage and diverse tourism experiences,” he said.
He said Sabah remained committed to expanding its international tourism partnerships as the state prepares for Visit Sabah 2027.
“Tourism is not merely about attracting visitors. It is also about building lasting friendships, promoting cultural understanding and creating economic opportunities that benefit our local communities.
“We welcome opportunities to work more closely with our Indian counterparts, particularly in tourism promotion, cultural cooperation and initiatives that can further strengthen connections between our people,” he added.
Jafry also highlighted Sabah’s potential as a destination for Indian travellers, citing its natural attractions, biodiversity, adventure tourism, cultural heritage and hospitality.
He thanked Somnath and the Indian High Commission for their continued efforts to foster closer relations between India and Malaysia.
“Sabah values its friendship with India, and we look forward to translating this relationship into partnerships that will benefit both sides. Our aspiration is to bring Sabah closer to the world while welcoming more of the world to experience Sabah,” he said.
Jafry (left), receives a souvenir from Somnath.
