KOTA KINABALU: The Federation of Rural Tourism Association Sabah (FeRTAS) is gearing up to market its rural tourism offerings to registered tour agents on tomorrow (Nov 16), aiming to attract more visitors seeking an authentic countryside experience.
This business-to-business session serves as a prelude to the fifth edition of the Sabah Community Based Tourism Fair 2023, scheduled from Nov 17-19 at Suria Sabah Shopping Mall.
Twelve operators under FeRTAS will engage in the B2B session with key industry players from the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta), Sabah Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Satta), and Sabah Tourist Association (STA).
Participating operators include Nabalu Tourism Association, Kadamaian, Kota Marudu, Lahad Datu, Kiulu, Keningau, Tambunan, Tenom, Penampang, Kuala Penyu, Ranau, and Kota Belud.
The session aims to familiarize agents with rural community tourism offerings and provide guidance to operators on effective marketing strategies.
Co-organised by the Sabah Tourism Board and FeRTAS, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor is scheduled to launch the Sabah Community Based Tourism Fair on November 17.
Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said this year’s fair will see 40 booths with participation from various tourism associations and ministries, among others.
“For the first time, Labuan and Brunei will also be onboard. This is an improtant improvement and it signifies the growing momentum in our endeavors to promote rural community tourism.
“The participation of neighboring country contributes to the sustainable development of rural tourism by establishing connections beyond borders,” he said after chairing the final committee meeting.
The three-day event will host various activities, including informative talks by FeRTAS, Sabah Homestay Association, Sabah Handicraft Center, Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry, and Sabah Parks.
Visitors can participate in quizzes after each talk, with the opportunity to win prizes through a lucky draw.
The fair will also feature cultural dance performances, traditional games, traditional musical instrument displays, and traditional cooking demonstrations, providing visitors with an immersive experience.
In addition to the main event, a children’s coloring contest, divided into two categories (5 to 8 years old and 9 to 12 years old), adds a family-friendly dimension to the Sabah Community Based Tourism Fair 2023.
Deasoka
