Joniston Bangkuai migling with Freddie Hugo Dowman (second left), Olivia Jane Christina (second right) and Neil Bridgwater (left). KIULU (July 27): Efforts to turn picturesque Kiulu into a top destination for summer camps and youth programmes is bearing fruits and fast gaining momentum. On Friday, a group of students from the United Kingdom, accompanied by three teachers, explored the natural beauty and warm hospitality of Kiulu.
Their five-hour trek took them through Kampung Lokub, Kampung Talantang and Kampung Ratau. Olivia Jane Christian, 16, was struck by Kiulu’s stunning scenery, describing it as breathtaking and ideal for both educational and adventurous trips. “Kiulu is amazing; everyone is so nice, always smiling and very hospitable,” she said, noting how welcomed her group felt.
Freddie Hugo Dowman, 16, highlighted his favourite aspects of the trip, including his interactions with the locals and exploration of the natural surroundings. “I love it here in Kiulu. The locals are friendly and brilliant.
After a long day of trekking, taking a dip in the cool river is just amazing. “I also learned about local fruits along the trek, which I’m not used to because of the smell, but the scenery is incredible,” Dowman recounted. Neil Bridgwater, the school leader, said these students just finished their exams, and that this trip is an opportunity for them to experience things they never would otherwise.
“In fact, two of them had never boarded a plane before. The school had several options, including South America and Cambodia, but chose Sabah for its orangutans, wildlife and jungle experiences,” Bridgwater explained. “Having visited Sarawak before, I knew Borneo was a great destination.
Kiulu is stunning, and while we haven’t seen much wildlife yet, we’ve spotted various birds. “It’s a fantastic opportunity for students to engage with the local community and contribute to environmental projects. We’ll continue this as we explore Sepilok for orangutans, sun bears, and other wildlife,” he said, praising the local guides for their support.
Meanwhile, Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said Kiulu has been hosting student groups from Europe, Australia, Dubai, and other places for years. “We are dedicated to transforming Kiulu into a rural tourism hub that encompasses all aspects of tourism, from adventure and eco-tourism to cultural and community-based experiences. “The influx of visitors to Kiulu aligns perfectly with the objective of using tourism as a means of economically empowering the rural community.
“Our goal is to provide visitors with a holistic experience to showcase the unique charm and hospitality of our local communities while promoting sustainable tourism practices,” said the Kiulu assemblyman. Kiulu Tourism Association president Meijin Maginggow noted that while the influx of youth campers was solid, numbers dwindled during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the trend is reversing, with 24 groups expected between June this year and January next year.
“These groups will arrive in two waves, with the first wave, from June to July, will mainly include students from the United Kingdom other European countries, and Dubai. “The second wave, from September to January, will feature students from Australia, Hong Kong and other places,” Maginggow said, adding that each group comprises between 10 to 25 people. In Kiulu, students participate in a variety of activities, including hiking, trekking, white water rafting, and other outdoor adventures.
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