Sabah is on track to achieve its target of four million visitor arrivals in 2026, following encouraging tourism figures that recorded approximately 2.6 million visitors as of August.
Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor said the state had welcomed 1.1 million international visitors and 1.5 million domestic visitors during the first eight months of the year.
He expressed confidence that the target remains achievable with stronger tourism performance expected in the fourth quarter.
“With a stronger fourth-quarter performance, I believe the target remains achievable,” he said.
Sabah Tourism Growth Ahead of Visit Sabah 2027
Hajiji said the state government remains committed to developing a competitive, inclusive and sustainable tourism industry.
The Sabah Tourism Blueprint will provide strategic direction for the sector, including addressing challenges involving flight connectivity, environmental protection and greater participation from local communities.
He highlighted Sabah’s tourism attractions, which include its islands, beaches, rainforests, mountains, wildlife, culture and local cuisine.
He also stressed the importance of cooperation between the public and private sectors to strengthen Sabah’s position as a tourism destination.
The state government is also refining its tourism strategies ahead of Visit Sabah Year 2027, which aims to strengthen Sabah’s appeal and competitiveness among domestic and international travellers.
With 2.6 million arrivals recorded by August 2026, Sabah now has approximately 1.4 million more visitor arrivals to achieve its annual target of four million.
Article Sources:
- The Borneo Post: Sabah on track to meet 4 million visitors target, says CM
- Bernama: Sabah on right track to achieve target of four million visitors this year
