‘Sandakan’s history a valuable asset for future tourism growth’

SANDAKAN (Jan 13): Beyond nature and wildlife, Sandakan is well positioned as the historical centre of Sabah, having served as the pre-war capital of British North Borneo, said Sandakan Heritage Trail founder and chairman Lai King Hang.

According to Lai, sustainable tourism development in Sandakan should prioritise the preservation of nature and heritage and maintain the original character of a place.

“While we need to capitalise on Sandakan’s tourism potential, preserving cultural heritage is the way forward.

“The town’s original character is also essential for long-term tourism value and economic asset,” he said in a statement on Tuesday.

Lai noted that under the new leadership of Sandakan Municipal Council president Walter Kenson, ongoing efforts to transform and revitalise Sandakan have accelerated significantly over the past six months, in line with public aspirations.

He said the Sandakan Heritage Trail is among the most popular heritage trails in Sabah and was recently recognised by Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) as the country’s first historical tree trail.

“Since its inception 23 years ago, the trail has built a strong following as a visible and self-guided tourism product in Sandakan town.

“It covers 10 heritage sites and has become a magnet for foreigner visitors, ” Lai added.

Meanwhile, Lai and his team members also took the opportunity to engage with Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin during the launch of the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) Entrance Foyer as well as the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre’s Information Centre and Boardwalk.

Also present were Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (Motac) secretary-general, Dato’ Shaharuddin Abu Sohot, Sabah Forestry Department chief conservator Datuk Frederick Kugan.