KOTA KINABALU: The tourism industry in Sabah is anticipated to face significant effects due to the increase in global oil prices, which are influenced by the conflict in the Middle East.
Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Environment of Sabah, Datuk Jafry Ariffin, stated that this situation directly affects the arrival of international tourists to Sabah as travel costs continue to rise.
He said that the increase in oil prices has major implications for the transportation sector, including boats, tourist buses, and tour services, which are the backbone of the state’s tourism industry.
“We certainly expect a significant impact when oil prices rise because it involves transportation and connectivity costs.
“This affects tourism operators who are still in the recovery phase,” he said.
He made these remarks during the Aidilfitri celebration hosted by the Sabah state government at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here on Saturday.
Asked about the potential global effects on tourist arrivals in Sabah, Jafry said early effects are already being felt as tourism operators, including boat and transport operators, have had to raise prices in line with the federal government’s regulations.
According to him, this situation also impacts tourism bookings, with cancellations occurring from markets affected by the conflict.
“The effects on tourism bookings are already visible. However, this is not only happening in Sabah; the entire world is facing a similar situation,” he said.
Source – Sabah Media
