Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing has warned industry players in Semporna, Sabah, of potential risk to their businesses if they fail to address complaints surrounding health and safety of visitors to the island.
When contacted, Tiong said the ministry through its agencies will issue a "red notice" warning visitors against travelling to Semporna, as a last resort.
"If they did not address the complaints, we (ministry) will not advise people to go there (Semporna).
"We have our platforms. We can tell international visitors to not go there. It's for their health, safety and other issues," Tiong told Malaysiakini.
Tiong added that he has also instructed his deputy, Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan to urgently visit Semporna to inspect the area.
In a Facebook post earlier today, Tiong said he had raised the complaints at a recent cabinet meeting.
"Among issues of concern to tourists to Semporna are claims of a dirty environment, with rubbish piles that emit a foul odour.
"Not just that, there were also other issues such as food poisoning, hospitality service not at par with the prices charged, bugs infestation and many more," said Tiong on Facebook.
"Therefore, all parties including resort operators, restaurant operators, hotel managements, homestays, local authorities and others must take immediate action to upgrade and improve all aspects related to tourism.
"I call on the state agencies and others involved to submit to me their action plans to resolve and improve on all weaknesses identified, and provide a better experience for tourists," he said.
Tiong also noted recurring complaints from tourists since several months ago and his prior calls for corrective actions have been left unheeded.
Semporna, situated on the South-Eastern Coast of Sabah, is known as a gateway for tourists, including professional divers who are seeking underwater adventures. - Mkini
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