KOTA KINABALU: Sabah tourism operators are advised to begin early preparations as international borders are set to reopen from April 1, says Datuk Jafry Ariffin.

       "My advice to all our tourism industry operators is to start preparing to receive tourists from abroad and ensure that the standard operating procedures (SOP) are observed strictly," said the state Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister.

       Jafry said this in welcoming Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob's announcement on the re-opening of Malaysia's borders.

       "It is good news for tourism industry operators and the entire chain. We hope the process of reviving the tourism sector after two years of the Covid-19 pandemic will begin," he said.

       Jafry also ordered all agencies under his Ministry to intensify promotion in marketing Sabah's tourism products and locations internationally.

       He added that the Ministry would continue to cooperate and support all efforts made by the government in successfully reopening the border from April 1.