Sabah is taking a proactive measure to probe into the complaints of some Chinese tourists posted on  social media and e-commerce platform Xiaohongshu about poor service and facilities at an island resort. 

Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew said the matter is under review, with Sabah Tourism Board chief executive officer Julinus Jeffrey Jimit informing the resort of the complaints.

Liew did not mention the location of the resort. 

“We take all feedback seriously and have taken swift action to address the matter. I have directed the CEO to get to the root of the allegations, determine their veracity, and rectify the issue promptly.

“If proven true, appropriate action, including penalties, should be taken,” she said in Kota Kinabalu. 

The authority to enforce tourism-related regulations falls under the Federal Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry jurisdiction. 

This is the first time Sabah indicated their plans to penalise operators amid ongoing talks on the devolution of tourism powers from the federal government to Sabah and Sarawak governments.

Liew stressed the importance of maintaining Sabah’s reputation as a top travel destination.

“We cannot afford to have unpleasant tourist experiences tarnishing Sabah’s image. We are committed to upholding the highest service standards for every visitor,” she said.

She added that the resort management is also investigating the matter and plans to reach out to affected guests.

“The island resort management has assured my ministry that they are taking the concerns seriously and have initiated an internal review of their service standards,” she said. – February 3, 2025