Riverside development, water sports strengthen Limbang’s tourism sector

LIMBANG : Riverside development, regatta events and water sports activities have the potential to become major tourism products that can attract more visitors to Limbang and stimulate the local economy.

Deputy Minister for Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development, Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail, said the development of facilities and the organisation of events capable of attracting visitors should continue to strengthen the tourism sector in Limbang.

“When more people come, that is what helps drive the economy. That is why we need to make the most of the opportunities available to attract more visitors to Limbang,” he said when speaking at the Limbang Festival Appreciation Night recently.

Dr Abdul Rahman said Limbang Festival 2026 had successfully attracted approximately 30,000 visitors, generating about RM1 million in direct sales, while its overall economic impact was estimated at between RM2 million and RM3 million.

He said the economic spillover from such events also benefited the hospitality sector, restaurants and local businesses.

He added that organising various events throughout the year could enliven Limbang while strengthening community ties through the participation of people from different backgrounds.

On infrastructure development, Dr Abdul Rahman said the implementation of the Sabah-Sarawak Link Road (SSLR) is expected to improve connectivity and create more opportunities for Limbang’s tourism sector.

He also highlighted two specific issues concerning Limbang that had been raised during the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting – a proposal to extend the Limbang Airport runway and a study into the potential presence of oil and gas reserves in the Limbang hinterland.

He expressed hope that continued efforts to improve facilities, diversify tourism attractions, and strengthen cooperation among all parties would support Limbang’s development towards 2030 and beyond.