FERRY SERVICE TO BOOST TRAVEL BETWEEN SABAH AND BRUNEI

BEAUFORT (Malaysia), July 6 (Bernama) -- Ferry services between Muara in
Brunei and Menumbok near this town in East Malaysia state of Sabah, is expected
to make a big impact on tourism and promote an alternative two-way travel.

Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Masidi Manjun said the
proposal tabled by the state government recently had received positive response
from the Brunei government, while the implementation of the project had been
handed to the private sector.

Once operational, the ferry service would reduce travel time between Sabah
and Brunei significantly, from seven to eight hours by land, to only two hours
by sea.

"Though we suggested Sipitang earlier, Menumbok was chosen because
Menumbok already had ferry services in place, so it can be carried out
immediately," he told reporters after launching Sago Festival here Sunday.

Asked when the services will start, Masidi said: "It will depend on
how fast the private sector implemented the project. The government has
facilitated the laws and we hope the initiative will be taken by the private
sector of both countries."

Ferry operators in Sabah had already stated readiness to start operations
once the main issues of concern had been ironed out.

Masidi said the suggestion was a result of discussions with the Brunei
government earlier this year, and among other initiatives include a Memorandum
of Understanding between the Sabah Tourism Board and Royal Brunei, in a joint
effort to promote Sabah and Brunei as tourist destinations.

Meanwhile, Masidi said that Rumbia trees not only had potential for
food products such as sago, but also as a brand for Kuala Penyu.

He said Kuala Penyu could be seen as a special district for the cultivation
of Rumbia trees which apart from providing revenue for the locals, will also be
a good tourist attraction.

"We need to cultivate Rumbia trees to prevent its extinction since such
products cannot be found in other places," he added.
--BERNAMA