New opportunities in rural tourism
KOTA KINABALU: A dearth of lodging in remote Kiulu has driven 42-year-old Lasmen Lopuk to develop a homestay within his 0.8 hectare piece of land located at scenic Kampung Poturidong, about 50km away from the State capital.
The idea came about during a family day event five years ago when he realised Kiulu, being a beautiful rural sub-district with potential in nature-based activities, lack accommodation for visitors wishing to spend the night.
“I was toying with the idea because most visitors come to Kiulu for a picnic and some of them come from far, but they have no place to stay. In 2014, I started small by opening a space for camping ground.
“We also provided camps for visitors, so they can experience Kiulu to the fullest. By 2015, I built four chalets with a kampung-style concept and since then, I have been receiving visitors almost every week,” said the owner of Kondis Point Homestay.
Lasmen, from Kampung Poturidong, said homestays have existed in Kiulu since the 1990s but noted the operation was not very active back then.
He said the homestay concept began to bloom in Kiulu from 2013, as villagers began grasping the opportunities after learning more on homestay and rural tourism development through courses or exhibitions.
“As Sabah progresses in terms of urban development, it is also important to focus on developing rural districts through tourism. It is one of the ways to boost the villagers’ socio-economic development as it creates job opportunities.
“Since opening my homestay, I have hired villagers to help look after the facilities. I have also noticed that with the presence of homestays in Kiulu, we have received thousands of visitors here,” he said.
Lasmen, who used to be a driver and freelance tour guide, now works full-time as homestay operator, benefiting from the profits of tourism.
He hoped the development of rural tourism in the state would be more vibrant in future with more villagers taking part in the positive progress.
Currently, there are more than 30 homestays in Kiulu and the number is expected to grow.
Source: New Straits Times
