Sabah is charting a course toward a new era of coastal tourism excellence with the signing of a groundbreaking agreement to develop East Asia's first-ever Ship Hotel and City Marina at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) Jetty. This visionary project, valued at RM130 million, is set to redefine Kota Kinabalu's waterfront and elevate the region's tourism infrastructure, providing a significant boost to the local economy and reinforcing Sabah's position as a premier coastal destination in Asia.
The Ship Hotel and City Marina Project marks a historic milestone for Sabah, making it the first of its kind in East Asia, with only Dubai having previously hosted such a development in the entire continent. The Ship Hotel will be permanently docked at the SICC Jetty in Kota Kinabalu, offering 216 luxury guest rooms, world-class dining facilities, leisure and wellness amenities, and a state-of-the-art auditorium. This will not only be a major addition to Sabah's hospitality offering but also a striking new landmark that promises to attract international tourists to the region.
In addition to the Ship Hotel, the project will also feature a vibrant City Marina, alongside a complete overhaul and upgrade of the SICC Jetty's infrastructure. This ambitious initiative aims to create a dynamic waterfront hub that combines leisure, business, and cultural experiences, further enhancing the region's appeal to both business and leisure travellers.
This monumental development is a testament to Sabah's growing tourism potential and its commitment to high-impact, sustainable projects that highlight the state's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The Ship Hotel and City Marina are expected to create significant economic benefits, generating new employment opportunities, fostering business development, and driving tourism growth. These initiatives will not only enhance the experience for visitors but also provide long-term prospects for local businesses and entrepreneurs in the hospitality, retail, and service sectors.
The project is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing Sabah's reputation as a leading Business Events (BE) destination. With its upgraded infrastructure and world-class facilities, the SICC Jetty will further solidify its status as a hub for international conferences, conventions, and exhibitions, attracting both regional and global visitors.
The development of the Ship Hotel and City Marina will completely transform Kota Kinabalu's waterfront, a key area that has been undergoing significant revitalization efforts in recent years. The Ship Hotel will not only serve as an iconic architectural feature but will also breathe new life into the region's maritime and tourism sectors. The addition of the City Marina will bring an influx of visitors to the area, who will be able to enjoy a wide array of recreational activities, dining options, and cultural events, making it a central destination for both locals and tourists.
Furthermore, the project's integration of leisure and business facilities aims to create a seamless experience for visitors. Whether they are attending a business event at the SICC or simply looking to enjoy the serene beauty of Kota Kinabalu's coastline, the Ship Hotel and City Marina will cater to diverse needs, ensuring that Sabah continues to be a top-tier destination for all types of travellers.
This landmark development is the result of a collaboration between D'Heritage Sdn. Bhd., a subsidiary of Innoprise Corporation Sdn. Bhd., and Nomad Hospitality Group. Together, these two entities have committed to creating a project that combines innovation, luxury, and sustainability. With the backing of such reputable companies, the project is poised to make a lasting impact on Sabah's tourism landscape.
The partnership between these groups is a strategic move to elevate Sabah's position within the region's competitive tourism market. By focusing on sustainable development and eco-friendly practices, they aim to ensure that the Ship Hotel and City Marina project will set a new benchmark for coastal tourism in the region, one that celebrates Sabah's natural beauty while contributing to the state's long-term growth.
While specific completion dates have not been confirmed, the Ship Hotel and City Marina are expected to open their doors in the coming years, following the completion of necessary infrastructure upgrades. The project's construction is already underway, and once completed, it will bring Sabah a significant step closer to becoming a key player in the global tourism market.
With its location at the SICC Jetty, a well-known hub for business events and conventions, the development is expected to be a major draw for both leisure and business visitors. As one of East Asia's most innovative and ambitious projects, the Ship Hotel and City Marina will undoubtedly set a new standard for luxury and sustainability in the region.
The Ship Hotel and City Marina are expected to be major economic drivers for Sabah, contributing to job creation, local enterprise growth, and increased tourism revenue. The upgraded facilities and new amenities will attract international and regional tourists, who will spend money on accommodation, dining, and leisure activities, boosting the local economy.
Additionally, the increased demand for business event spaces at the SICC Jetty will result in more conferences, trade shows, and exhibitions being hosted in Kota Kinabalu, driving further economic activity and creating more opportunities for local businesses.
Sabah's Ship Hotel and City Marina project represents a bold and visionary step towards the future of coastal tourism in East Asia. As the first project of its kind in the region, it has the potential to redefine the tourism landscape, transforming Kota Kinabalu into a world-class destination for leisure and business travellers alike. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and luxury, the Ship Hotel and City Marina will not only enhance Sabah's global appeal but also provide significant economic benefits for the local community. This is a project to watch as it continues to take shape and contribute to Sabah's growth as a leading coastal destination.