KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government should include the tourism sector on the concurrent list of the Federal Constitution.

Datuk Jafry Ariffin (Umno-Sukau) suggested through the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) technical committee that the move aligns with Sabah's demand for rights as enshrined in the MA63.

"We need the tourism sector to be on the concurrent list as it is challenging for the federal government to grant absolute power to Sabah.

"(The tourism sector) involves not only the Tourism, Arts, and Culture Ministry but also the Transport Ministry, Home Ministry, and others," he said during the debate session at the state assembly sitting here.

Jafry, the former state Tourism, Culture, and Environment minister, also noted that despite Sabah having a state tourism policy, its implementation has been inadequate.

Referring to Sabah Parks and the Sabah Wildlife Department, he mentioned that although these two agencies oversee most tourism products in Sabah, they have failed to plan effectively.

"For example, there are three islands in front of us (in Kota Kinabalu) - Manukan, Sapi, and Sulug. Development is based on investors, which leaves us vulnerable to exploitation by outsiders.

"But with a detailed master plan, we can attract capable investors instead of companies with minimal capital who seek profits by obtaining 'approvals' from Sabah Parks."

Jafry supported a suggestion from Datuk Seri Salleh Said Keruak (Umno-Usukan) to address the monopoly of foreigners in providing outbound services in the tourism sector in the state.

"I propose creating a formula and mechanism to prevent this, as it could negatively impact local tourism players.

"We should focus on attracting high-spending tourists rather than mass tourism."

He also urged for improvements to the facilities and cleanliness of Kota Kinabalu International Airport, ensuring that operators and stakeholders obtain licenses and permits, implementing early prevention methods for sea activities, and addressing illegal homestay or accommodation operators.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/04/1041743/sabah-govt-told-include-tourism-federal-constitution-concurrent-list