KOTA KINABALU: The number of visitors from South Korea to Sabah has shown a significant increase, underscoring the state’s growing popularity as a preferred destination among travellers from the “Land of Morning Calm”.
Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said South Koreans have consistently shown keen interest in exploring Sabah’s natural wonders and they make up a large number of visitors.
Between January and April there were 68,685 tourists from South Korea, which was a leap from the 720 arrivals recorded during the same period last year.
For tourism to continue to experience growth, Bangkuai said it was important to enhance international connectivity to Sabah.
“More international direct flights create a vital balance that not only benefits our tourism industry but also fuels economic growth in Sabah.
“By enhancing connectivity, we are opening doors to more visitors to experience the natural wonders and cultural heritage that Sabah offers while generating employment opportunities and driving sustainable development,” he said after welcoming South Korean tourists at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport.
Currently, Sabah is connected to 10 international cities – Singapore, Bandar Seri Begawan, Taipei, Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Wuhan, Incheon, Busan and Manila.
International connectivity to Sabah got another boost with South Korean-based low-cost airline, T’way Air, introducing their direct flight from Incheon to Kota Kinabalu.
The inaugural flight, which carried 188 passengers, further strengthened the existing links between South Korea and Sabah.
“The Sabah Tourism Board has put in place two events – the Asian Dive Expo (ADEX) and the Asian Bird Festival – that aim to attract international participants, including from South Korea,” he said.
“Sabah’s commitment to these events underscores its dedication to becoming a premier destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.”
T’way Air, originally Hansung Airlines, underwent reorganisation and rebranding in 2010. As of 2019, it was the third-largest South Korean low-cost carrier.
In addition to the T’way Air flight, Sabah is expected to receive more direct flights in the coming months.
Shanghai Airlines is scheduled to reinstate daily direct flights to Sabah on July 12, offering further connectivity between Sabah and Shanghai.
AirAsia also plans to commence routes from Beijing to Kota Kinabalu (daily) from July 12 and from Macau to Kota Kinabalu (four times weekly) from July 16.
