Kiulu's Water Rafting Industry Thrives, Boosting Local Economy

By LUCIA TEREY ANAK JOHN

KOTA KINABALU, Nov 14 (Bernama) -- Sungai Kiulu, with its powerful currents, challenging rapids, and stunning natural scenery, has been a "paradise" for water rafting enthusiasts both locally and internationally for the past 20 years.

The area’s unique geography has also provided an opportunity for locals to boost their income through community-based tourism (eco-tourism), which was previously reliant on agriculture.

Since the adventure sport gained popularity, eight rafting companies have operated in Kiulu. However, following the COVID-19 pandemic, only three remain active, including the Kiulu Water Rafting Centre.

Amin Ashraf, 51, an experienced rafting guide at the centre, shared that their facility now hosts thousands of tourists annually.

“When we first started in 2005, we only had two or three boats for rafting. But as demand grew, we expanded our facilities and strengthened safety measures,” he told Bernama recently.

Amin added that they now have 10 boats, each able to carry seven to eight passengers.

“It used to be just a few boats, but now tourists come non-stop, especially during public holidays,” he added.

Around 70 per cent of their customers are foreign tourists from countries like Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and China, while the remainder are local visitors from Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah.

Sungai Kiulu offers a rafting route over 14 kilometres long, with thrilling rapids and lush tropical rainforest views, making it stand out from other rivers in Malaysia.

“Unlike rivers elsewhere that are narrow and fast, here the river is wider and longer. Tourists can also see wildlife along the way, like birds, iguanas, and monitor lizards,” said Amin.

During the rainy season, the rapids at Kiulu can reach grade four, providing an even more challenging and exciting experience for adventure seekers.

Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, the Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS) candidate for the Kiulu state seat  also acknowledged Kiulu’s potential as an eco-tourism destination that is gaining global attention.

Joniston has long recognised the area’s eco-tourism potential, and since taking office in 2013, he has pushed for various development programmes.

“Through community-based tourism programmes, locals can now earn up to RM10,000 a month by capitalising on Kiulu’s unique geography, as well as its rich culture and handicrafts,” he told Bernama.

He also pointed out that in 2014, there were only three or four tourism operators in Kiulu, but now the number has grown to over 80, including community-based tourism businesses.

“The response to these programmes has been excellent,” he added, expressing his intention to further internationalise Kiulu’s eco-tourism if he is re-elected.

The Kiulu constituency, located about 50 kilometres from Kota Kinabalu, has 17,191 electors who are entitled to vote in the 17th Sabah state election on Nov 29.

In the 16th Sabah state election, Joniston won the Kiulu seat with a majority of 1,221 votes, defeating five other candidates.

For the latest updates on the 17th Sabah state election, visit prn.bernama.com/sabah

-- BERNAMA