Sabah is emerging as a leading destination for community-based tourism activities, with international and regional recognition highlighting the role of local communities as the main drivers of tourism experiences in rural areas.
Among the most frequently cited examples is KOPEL (Batu Puteh Community Ecotourism Cooperative Initiative).
It is recognised as one of the Best Tourism Villages by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
The recognition highlights its strong commitment to community-based initiatives and conservation-focused tourism practices.
In addition, several community-based tourism products in Sabah have received recognition under the ASEAN Tourism Standard.
This reflects the state’s ongoing efforts to develop well-structured and sustainable rural tourism initiatives.
Your Next Destination with Sabah Tourism Board
Since 2014, the Sabah Tourism Board has played a key role in providing training and skills development to local communities.
This has enabled them to manage their own destinations independently, without relying entirely on external parties.
Communities in Kiulu and Kadamaian were among the earliest to receive training. They served as pilot projects for rural and community-based tourism development in Sabah.
One of the community tourism operators in Kiulu, Lingga Eco Tourism in Kampung Lingga, is among five operators in Sabah that recently received the ASEAN Tourism Standard recognition at the national level in 2025.
Lingga Eco Tourism sits at the foothills, surrounded by lush greenery, with the Kiulu River flowing nearby.
It offers activities like hiking to Dapako Hill and a variety of engaging outdoor experiences, attracting both local and international tourists.
In addition to hiking, visitors can enjoy water activities such as rafting. These experiences allow them to take in the beauty of the natural surroundings.
Only The Best Experience is Guaranteed
The chairperson, Kait Lasangan, explained that the community jointly manages every eco-tourism activity. Residents take on roles as tour guides, maintenance workers, and activity coordinators.
Whether working as guides, participating in community clean-ups, or carrying out area maintenance, all work is paid and provides income for residents. Community involvement goes beyond guiding visitors; they also share village stories and daily life experiences, making the visitor experience more personal and truly authentic.
Chairperson of the Lingga Eco Tourism Community
In conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026, Sabah is opening its doors to domestic tourists to experience community-based tourism, nature, adventure, and local culture.
The state government has designated Visit Sabah Year 2027 as a key tourism agenda.
The initiative emphasizes tourism experiences that highlight community participation, nature, adventure, and local culture.
Kait believes that with continuous support from the government and relevant agencies, community eco-tourism initiatives can grow sustainably without compromising the interests of residents.
When the community is involved and benefits directly, they will take better care of the area. This is not just about tourism, but about the sustainability and future of the village.
This approach creates a sustainable community tourism ecosystem with residents as the main drivers, while Sabah offers a variety of experiences tailored to visitors’ interests and preferences.
In Nature, We Grow to be Closer
From rivers to highlands and coastlines, Sabah delivers a burst of outdoor adventures and local experiences worth exploring:
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Kadamaian, where crystal-clear rivers rush down from the foothills of Mount Kinabalu, setting the scene for refreshing dips and nature camping.
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Tambunan and Tenom, bringing agro-tourism to life with hands-on moments in gardening, farming, and harvesting local produce.
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KOPEL Kinabatangan, offering thrilling wildlife encounters that also give back by supporting local communities.
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Kundasang is a cool-climate escape filled with scenic vegetable farms and doorstep access to Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Kota Marudu and Kudat, where calm beaches meet vibrant Rungus culture for a perfect coastal experience.
With such a wide range of experiences, community-based tourism in Sabah not only provides enjoyment for visitors but also supports sustainable development and the livelihoods of local communities.