In an important step towards sustainable community tourism, Kampung Bambangan in Batu Sapi has, under the Malaysian Homestay Experience Programme (PPHM), been recognised as the first community based tourism (CBT) destination in Sandakan. The decision, made by the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture (Motac), opens a new era in the tourism landscape of Sandakan district. The increasing preference for community based tourism, as demonstrated by the choice of Kampung Bambangan for the initiative, underscores the importance of local involvement, the exchange of traditions, and the preservation of ecosystems.
Experience Local Life and Unique Attractions
Kampung Bambangan's entry into the community-based tourism sector provides a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the authentic daily lives of local villagers. This initiative offers a hands-on experience of village life, giving travelers the chance to engage with locals and discover the traditional practices that make the community special. In addition to the cultural experiences, visitors will be able to explore the village's attractions, which include an array of outdoor activities and natural wonders.
One of the highlights of the Kampung Bambangan experience is the opportunity to enjoy a picnic at Jeti Lagenda, a picturesque spot where travelers can relax and enjoy the serenity of nature. Another key attraction is the visit to the soft crab farms, where visitors can learn about the local aquaculture industry and even participate in harvesting crabs. For those interested in more active pursuits, fishing and cruising through the mangroves of the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve offer a chance to explore the area's natural beauty while engaging in eco-tourism activities.
These activities provide an authentic and enriching experience for tourists, encouraging them to connect with the local community and understand the cultural significance of the environment. The community-based tourism model ensures that local residents directly benefit from tourism, both economically and socially, by creating sustainable income opportunities and strengthening community cohesion.
Community Unity and Hospitality: The Heart of Kampung Bambangan
One of the key aspects of Kampung Bambangan's success in becoming a CBT destination is the strong sense of hospitality and unity displayed by the local community. The villagers and the local cooperative have worked together to create a welcoming environment for visitors, ensuring that the experience is as authentic and immersive as possible. This spirit of collaboration not only enhances the tourist experience but also fosters a sense of shared growth and development within the community.
The cooperative model, which encourages collective involvement in tourism activities, is central to the success of community-based tourism in Kampung Bambangan. By empowering locals to actively participate in managing and benefiting from tourism, the community is able to maintain control over its cultural heritage and natural resources. This approach also ensures that the economic benefits of tourism are distributed equitably, creating sustainable livelihoods for the local population.
As a result, Kampung Bambangan has become a model for inclusive tourism development, where visitors are invited to explore the area in a way that supports both the community and the environment.
Expansion Plans for Sandakan's Homestay Clusters
The success of Kampung Bambangan's entry into the Homestay Experience Programme is just the beginning for community-based tourism in Sandakan. The Tourism, Arts, and Culture Ministry (Motac) has plans to expand the initiative to other villages in the region, including Kampung Segaliud, which is renowned for its wildlife and other tourism attractions. This expansion will offer even more opportunities for tourists to experience rural life in Sabah, and it is expected to boost the region's tourism offerings significantly.
Kampung Segaliud's diverse wildlife, including its proximity to wildlife reserves, adds an exciting dimension to the region's tourism potential. Visitors to this village will be able to engage in activities such as wildlife viewing and eco-tourism tours, which are growing in popularity among environmentally conscious travelers. By promoting these areas as community-based tourism destinations, the local government aims to create more inclusive and sustainable tourism opportunities while preserving the area's natural heritage.
Improved Accessibility and Infrastructure for Tourism Growth
In addition to the development of community-based tourism destinations, the improvement of infrastructure is crucial to ensuring the long-term success of Sandakan's tourism sector. Motac is also exploring options to improve transportation connectivity, with discussions around the potential for direct flight routes from Singapore to Sandakan. This would significantly increase accessibility to the region and attract more international tourists, particularly from nearby Southeast Asian countries.
The development of direct flights to Sandakan would not only enhance the region's appeal as a tourist destination but also facilitate easier access for visitors to explore other parts of Sabah. With a well-connected travel network, Sandakan could see a rise in tourist numbers, particularly those interested in adventure tourism, eco-tourism, and cultural experiences. This would, in turn, benefit local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, by generating increased demand for services.
Economic Impact of Community-Based Tourism
The growth of community-based tourism in Sandakan will have a significant economic impact on the region. According to recent figures, Sabah's homestay clusters have been steadily growing, with 39 clusters across 135 villages and 525 participants generating RM13.1 million in revenue from 161,318 visitors as of August 2025. These figures demonstrate the strong economic potential of community-based tourism, where local communities can benefit from sustainable tourism practices that generate income while preserving cultural and environmental assets.
By expanding the homestay clusters and promoting community-based tourism in Sandakan, the region can further tap into the growing global demand for authentic travel experiences. Tourists are increasingly seeking out destinations that offer not only scenic beauty but also the opportunity to engage with local cultures and communities. By focusing on sustainability, cultural preservation, and economic inclusion, Sandakan's community-based tourism model presents a compelling opportunity for sustainable growth.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Sandakan's Tourism
Celebrating Kampung Bambangan as the first hand community-based tourism destination in Sandakan region represents the first step in the diversification tourism offerings for the region. The observance of this tourism initiative for sustainable and responsible tourism and to community empowerment with place value recognition as it repurposes cultural heritage, this community-based tourism initiative sets a benchmark for sustainable tourism and responsible tourism development not only in the region but in the whole nation.
With the region's new focus on tourism and Sandakan for new initiatives on community-based tourism and the region's improving tourism infrastructure, it is only a matter of time before Sandakan becomes one of the most important gateways for culturally conscious and value aware travelers. In regards to community-based tourism, Sandakan is one of the best international tourism positioned communities in the region.