By PAUL MU
KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Sabah is gearing up for Visit Sabah 2027 with the return of MATTA Fair Sabah 2026.
The event will be held from Sept 18 to 20, 2026 at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC).
It will bring together travel agencies, hotels, tourism organisations, cruise operators and other industry players, offering travel packages for domestic and international destinations.
More than 150 exhibition booths will be featured as the fair continues to play an important role in stimulating travel demand and promoting Sabah as a leading tourism destination in Asia.
The fair also serves as a platform to support business growth, encourage innovation and promote sustainable tourism practices, including community-based tourism (CoBT) products.
MATTA Sabah Chapter expressed appreciation to the Sabah Tourism Board and the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment for their continued support of MATTA activities.
Organising Chairman Mohd Azlan Saleh Abd Salam said the fair had evolved beyond a travel exhibition by connecting travellers with trusted travel professionals while creating business opportunities for industry players.
“Every edition reflects the resilience of our industry and our shared commitment to delivering quality travel experiences,” he said.
He said the September edition would provide an opportunity for travellers to plan their year-end holidays, school breaks, festive trips and early 2027 vacations.
The fair also highlights MATTA Sabah’s commitment to supporting local tourism operators, community-based tourism initiatives, hospitality providers and tourism entrepreneurs through stronger industry collaboration.
Returning as the official bank partner, RHB Bank will offer promotions, payment solutions and rewards during the fair.
Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) will continue its support as the official airline partner by offering promotional fares and improved connectivity for travellers.
Visitors who spend a minimum of RM100 at the fair will be eligible to participate in the MATTA Fair Buyers’ Contest, with opportunities to win travel prizes and holiday experiences.
MATTA Sabah Chairman Alex Chong Vui Loong said the fair aimed to strengthen Sabah’s tourism ecosystem through strategic partnerships, sustainable tourism practices and talent development.
Alex and Azlan (centre and left, seated), with fair partners.
