KOTA KINABALU: Sabah's ambition to become a premier birdwatching destination received a boost after a compelling presentation at the Global Bird Fair in the United Kingdom. More than 100 birding and wildlife travel experts and enthusiasts from around the world listened attentively as Sabah unveiled the Sabah Birding Routes on Saturday (July 13). The event was held in Rutland, famous for its historic market towns and picturesque villages.
The guide map, launched by Sabah Tourism, Culture, and Environment Assistant Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, was the focal point of Sabah's birding destination promotion. "We aim to put Sabah on the global birdwatching map, and we are excited about the strong interest in Sabah's birding destination promotion at the Global Bird Fair," he said in a statement on Sunday (July 14). "This event showcased Sabah's birding potential and connected us with the global community.
"We are eager to welcome more birding enthusiasts to explore Sabah's natural beauty," added Bangkuai, who is also chairman of the Sabah Tourism Board (STB). Also present were STB chief executive officer Julinus Jimit, Sabah Birdwatchers Association president Ron Pudin, and representatives from key birding associations from other countries, including the World Pheasant Association. The Sabah Birding Routes outline the best birdwatching locations in Sabah, including Mount Kinabalu, which Bangkuai described as "a VIP lounge for our avian celebrities" due to its role as a key distr.
