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Daily Express

Tourism push boon for Lahad Datu

Published on: Wednesday, August 20, 2025 Published on: Wed, Aug 20, 2025 By: Azmie Lim Text Size: Yong mingling with some of the festivalgoers. LAHAD DATU: The district is expected to continue growing rapidly and gaining prominence with several initiatives being implemented by the Government. Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP) President Datuk Seri Yong Teck Lee said among the initiatives are the approval of a RM30 million Free Trade Zone, a 100-gigawatt solar project and the implementation of the Pan Borneo project. Advertisement 'These projects are expected to elevate Lahad Datu to the international stage,' he said when officiating the Lahad Datu Cultural Festival 2025, which was also attended by sailors taking part in Sail Malaysia: Passage to the East 2025. Yong also expressed hope that more youths would follow the example of Lahad Datu Tourism Association President Joe Wong, who has shown the courage to drive the development of the tourism sector in the district. Meanwhile, in his speech at the festival, Wong said the event was among the activities organised to welcome and appreciate the arrival of sailors to the district. He added that the festival also serves as a platform to foster friendship through maritime expeditions between the sailors and the local community. 'This festival is also a means for us to showcase the beauty and uniqueness of our State and district's culture,' he said. At the festival, participants of Sail Malaysia: Passage to the East 2025 – comprising 57 sailors from various countries – were treated to cultural performances by local ethnic groups and a feast of traditional dishes. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia