Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin distributes Visit Malaysia 2026 goodie bags to tourists in conjunction with Chinese New Year 2026 at the Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) arrival hall - NSTP/MOHD ADAM ARININKOTA KINABALU: Sabah recorded 1,400 visitor arrivals on the first day of Chinese New Year in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), said Tourism Malaysia Sabah director Haryanty Abu Bakar. The welcoming activities for domestic and international visitors were aimed at highlighting Malaysia's multicultural heritage, she said. Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Jafry Ariffin underscored the state government's commitment to the success of VM2026. "This initiative also showcases the hospitality of Sabah's people so the state remains a leading tourism destination," he said. Guests included Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Dr Andi Md Shamsureezal Mohd Sainal, representatives of Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd and stakeholders from the Sabah tourism industry.

Source: New Strait Times February 17, 2026 12:47 UTC