Any proposed development around Mount Kinabalu must be thoroughly assessed with strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and the protection of Sabah’s natural heritage, says the state government.
Sabah Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Datuk Jafry Ariffin said this position was conveyed during a courtesy visit by Jesselton International Sdn Bhd, which presented its proposed Kinabalu Cable Car project alongside a feasibility study covering Kundasang and the Mount Kinabalu area.
He stressed that Mount Kinabalu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, holds exceptional biodiversity value and ecological importance, requiring an extremely cautious approach to any form of development.
Jafry said all proposals must comply with strict requirements, including a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), to ensure minimal disruption to the sensitive ecosystem.
While the ministry does not oppose development that can boost the economy and enhance tourism experiences, he emphasised that such projects must be carefully controlled, taking into account environmental carrying capacity and avoiding excessive pressure on fragile habitats.
He also noted that several international UNESCO-listed sites have successfully implemented cable car systems under strict conservation frameworks, citing examples such as Australia’s Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Spain’s Teleférico del Teide, China’s Tianzi Mountain Cableway, South Africa’s Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, and Brazil’s Sugarloaf Cable Car.
According to him, these global cases demonstrate how tourism infrastructure can be developed while maintaining biodiversity protection through controlled visitor management and minimal environmental impact.
Jafry added that such systems can help reduce hiking pressure while improving organised and sustainable access for tourists, provided they are guided by science, strict regulation, and conservation principles.
He reiterated that a “conservation first” approach must form the foundation of any evaluation of the proposal, ensuring no disturbance to wildlife habitats or the integrity of Kinabalu Park.
The minister further highlighted the need to consider local community interests in Kundasang and Ranau, including economic opportunities, cultural preservation, and spiritual values closely tied to Mount Kinabalu.
He said green technology, eco-friendly design, and adherence to international best practices in sustainable tourism must also be prioritised.
Any final decision, he added, will be made carefully based on data and scientific assessments through engagement with relevant agencies, including Sabah Parks and other stakeholders, as the state continues to balance economic growth with environmental conservation.
