Lahad Datu must rise above ‘dark past’ to realise tourism potential, says Bangkuai

KOTA KINABALU: Lahad Datu needs to rise above its “dark historical past” and focus on revitalising its vast tourism potential, says Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.

The Sabah Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister said Lahad Datu should be known for its multifaceted wonders through continuous promotion of the district’s breathtaking nature, culture and unique biodiversity.

This, he added, would guide Lahad Datu away from its reputation tarnished by the 2013 intrusion into Kampung Tanduo at Felda Sahabat by armed men from the Sulu archipelago in the southern Philippines.

He said the events had led to security alerts being issued by various countries, inadvertently shaping the perception of Lahad Datu as a “war city”.

“With heightened security measures in Sabah’s east coast, safety should no longer be an issue in Lahad Datu, and the high occupancy rate in Danum Valley and Tabin Wildlife (Reserve) shows that foreign tourists are confident about visiting the area,” he said at an engagement session with tourism players and stakeholders on Saturday (Aug 12) as part of his working visit to the district.

Noting Lahad Datu’s distinction as home to the world’s tallest tropical tree, one of the oldest rainforests and the only blue ring reef in the world thought to have a double hole, he said the district has the potential to rank among Sabah’s premium destinations.

Bangkuai, who is also Sabah Tourism Board chairman, said there was a pressing need for inventive concepts while highlighting rural destinations and their communities.

He underscored the importance of empowerment through tourism and highlighted the concept of community-based tourism, which includes various elements such as nature-based, cultural-based, and agro-based tourism.

Collaboration was highlighted as a key factor in generating creative and forward-thinking ideas to promote rural destinations and the local community.

One example he provided was the creation of synergy packages that would allow tourists to explore multiple village communities before visiting Lahad Datu’s renowned attractions, such as the Danum Valley and Tabin Wildlife.

“With a concerted effort by all stakeholders, Lahad Datu has the opportunity to redefine its identity and showcase an array of captivating experiences, extending well beyond its natural wonders.

“We need a dynamic blueprint for Lahad Datu that paints a picture of hope and progress to propel the district towards a brighter, more vibrant future, where its true essence shines beyond the shadows of tragic history,” he added.