Kota Kinabalu: Sabah has the potential to become a major organiser of adventure events such as the 4x4 off-road challenge considering its location and suitable environment.
Tourism, Culture and Environment Assistant Minister Datuk Karim Bujang said not many states in Malaysia organise such competitions.
"I hope that Sabah will become a major organiser of this event and bring tourists into the State," he said after presenting the prizes to winners of the 15th Borneo Safari 2005 on Sunday.
He said if the event proved successful, hopefully international participants would promote the State to their fellow countrymen to visit Sabah not only to take part in the event but for sightseeing as well.
In this respect, he urged the organisers, Malaysia Tourism Board (Sabah) and Sabah Tourism Board (STB) to plan the event early so as to attract more participants and tourists to come for the competition next year.
"If the event is successful it should be able to attract more diverse international participants such as the annual International Mt Kinabalu Climbathon," he said.
However, he stressed that early preparation is important to ensure the success of the event.
On other developments, he said the staging of Borneo Safari has helped established Sabah as an off-road safari destination and also provide and important opportunity to showcase Sabah's diverse natural attractions.
These, inevitably has complemented STB efforts to promote Sabah as a premier nature and adventure destination.
The off-road competition passed by several major towns in Sabah such as Tambunan, Ranau and Kudat.
Participants were tested of their skills, not only in driving but also in negotiating difficult situations.
The event attracted thousands of spectators that comprised 4x4 enthusiasts, onlookers and locals, as well.
Meanwhile, Loo Fu Siong and co-driver, Jabinus Suani emerged the champions of the Borneo Safari 2005.
Yap Swee Kiong and co-driver Kok Tsin Yee won second place while last year's champions, Yong See Long/Pang Ket Vui managed only third place.
Courtesy of Daily Express
