TAMBUNAN: Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Pairin Kitingan hopes the people from here will prepare themselves to welcome Visit Tambunan Year in 2017.
"The district has great potential to be developed as ecotourism destination which offers products ranging from green landscaping, local produces, foods and cultures.
"People will have to find better ways to market their products, provide facility and maintain cleanliness," he said to people of Kampung Kerokot here after inspecting 10-km road project along Jalan Tambunan-Ranau.
The district, which is about two-hour drive from state capital, has Trus Mardi range, Mahua waterfall and Rafflesia Centre among others.
"There will be a three-day Bamboo and Ginger Festival next month which will be served as a pioneer project for the upcoming Visit Tambunan Year.
"Bamboo will be highlighted as it can be turned into food, furniture and music instrument," he said, adding people from China, Japan and several countries had deep interest with the plant.
He added to ensure everyone reaps benefits from the tourism-related activities; villagers would be given training on marketing and hospitality.
Earlier, Kitingan had inspected road works at Kampung Kuala Monsok and the construction of Bailey bridge at Kampung Pupuluton.