KOTA KINABALU, April 2 — The Sabah government will consider a proposal to build a cable car system at Kinabalu Park, on the foothills of the famed Mount Kinabalu, considering its potential economic boost and tourist appeal.

However, State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Jafry Ariffin said any development must prioritise environmental conservation and the protection of the park’s Unesco World Heritage status.

“Any proposal involving Mount Kinabalu must be evaluated thoroughly and comprehensively, with priority given to environmental sustainability and the preservation of our natural heritage,” he said in a statement.

“The ministry supports development that brings economic benefits and enhances the tourism experience, but it must be implemented in a controlled manner, taking into account carrying capacity and avoiding excessive pressure on sensitive ecosystems,” he said.

He said that Mount Kinabalu, as a Unesco World Heritage Site, holds high biodiversity value and ecological importance, and therefore any development must comply with strict standards, including a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

He said this during a courtesy call by Jesselton International Sdn Bhd for a cable car project in the Kundasang area.

He added that while infrastructure such as cable cars could improve accessibility and potentially ease pressure from climbing activities, it must be carefully managed to avoid overburdening sensitive ecosystems.

Jafry pointed to several international examples where cable car systems have been introduced in protected or heritage areas under strict controls, including the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway in Australia’s Wet Tropics, Spain’s Teide National Park, and Zhangjiajie’s Wulingyuan Scenic Area in China.

He said such projects demonstrate that tourism infrastructure can be developed alongside conservation efforts, provided they are guided by science, strict regulations and sustainable management practices.

At the same time, he stressed that Sabah will adopt a “conservation first” approach in evaluating the Kinabalu proposal, ensuring no disruption to wildlife habitats or the integrity of Kinabalu Park.

The state government will also consider the interests of local communities in Kundasang and Ranau, including economic opportunities, community participation, and the protection of cultural and spiritual values linked to the mountain.

Jafry added that any potential project must incorporate green technology, environmentally friendly designs and international best practices in sustainable tourism.

“Any decision will be made carefully, based on data and scientific findings, and through engagement with all relevant agencies, including Sabah Parks and other stakeholders,” he said.