The promotion of rural tourism products continues to intensify in the light of the Community-based Tourism Tour program organized by the Sabah Tourism Board (STB).
 Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Assafal Alian said the program would be held on November 16 and 17 in Suria Sabah.
He said this year, 25 districts across Sabah were involved in activities throughout the program.
 
"In the first year of its organization, only four districts were followed by 14 districts in the second year it was organized. This year, for the first time, Tungku sub-district is participating in this tour and will showcase tourism products from Tungku area," he told a press conference here yesterday.
 
He said Tungku has the potential to be developed as a tourist attraction in Sabah. Assafal said that in the government's efforts to grow the tourism industry, the Community-based Tourism Tour is a must-do.
 
"STB through the Tourism Series works hard to guide and educate the rural community to get involved in the industry.
 
"This is because tourists are not only visiting the islands and beaches, but they are beginning to visit the rural areas to learn the traditions, culture, food, and crafts of our community. Therefore, it is time for us to strengthen community-based tourism-related activities," he said.
 
He said what is interesting about this community-based tourism is that the revenue continues to be earned by the community itself.
 
People are welcome to join the Community-based Tourism Tour, which is open from 10 am to 10 pm in Suria Sabah.