Latest news with #SustainableWholisticWellnessInternationalConferenceandExpo
The Star
22-07-2025
- Health
- The Star
Community-based tourism players urged to leverage growing wellness travel trend
Datuk Joniston Bangkuai for the cancer awareness campaign in Kiulu. KOTA KINABALU: Community-based tourism operators across Sabah have been urged to integrate wellness elements into their products to remain competitive and aligned with global tourism trends. Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said Sabah's natural beauty, clean air, and cultural richness provide the ideal foundation for eco-wellness tourism, which is on the rise. 'Villagers should start thinking beyond sightseeing by incorporating wellness into their packages through mindful activities, traditional healing, or healthy local meals. These are simple additions that can add meaningful value to rural tourism,' Bangkuai said during the Program Jejak Kanser at Pekan Kiulu on Tuesday (July 22). The Kiulu assemblyman stressed that wellness tourism is no longer a niche, and travellers today are seeking places that help them relax, recharge, and reconnect. He pointed to last month's Sustainable Wholistic Wellness International Conference and Expo in Sabah as a strong signal that the state is ready to lead in this sector. Bangkuai said many rural communities already practice sustainable living and have access to nature-rich surroundings, making them well-positioned to offer genuine wellness experiences. 'In line with our efforts to transform Kiulu under the Sabah Maju Jaya agenda, which focuses on tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing, we also want to see Kiulu become a healthy and thriving rural community model. 'By hosting regular health screenings, nature-based therapy sessions, and awareness programmes, Kiulu can set a clear example that rural areas can advance healthy living,' he added. Bangkuai said establishing a wellness centre would support this vision, adding that integrating health elements into tourism can benefit both visitors and locals, and open up new economic and social opportunities.
Daily Express
28-06-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Smart Lifestyle Expo kicks off at Sabah International Convention Centre
Published on: Saturday, June 28, 2025 Published on: Sat, Jun 28, 2025 By: Sisca Humphrey Text Size: Amos (centre) with Monica (third, left), Cleopatra (second, left), and invited guests. Kota Kinabalu: The Smart Lifestyle Expo (SLE) 2025 opened at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here, on Friday, offering a three-day exhibition on wellness, smart living and innovation for the public. Held in collaboration with SWWICE 2025 (Sustainable Wholistic Wellness International Conference and Expo), the event featured more than 300 booths and activities, running from June 27 to 29 with free entry. The expo was officiated by State Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe. Phoong said the initiative aligned with the ministry's mission to foster entrepreneurship, support creative industries and strengthen the local economy through innovation and wellbeing. 'Let us continue to support and celebrate initiatives like this that are homegrown, forward-thinking and inclusive. 'These efforts will drive progress not only for our economy but also for the wellbeing of our people,' he said. His speech was delivered by his Public Relations Secretary Amos Thien. SLE Organising Chairperson Monica Shiau said the expo aimed to provide real-life solutions that could benefit both families and businesses. 'This wasn't just a product showcase. It was a space for people to learn, explore and discover what works for their lifestyle,' she said. Among the key highlights were the GoGlobal international business matching session, a Business Innovation Forum and the launch of the Decakila 3-on-3 Basketball Cup. The exhibition also featured themed zones focused on smart homes, ergonomic living, nutrition, mental health support, family wellness and children's creativity. 'We wanted the expo to be practical and engaging. From business networking to meaningful family time,' Monica said. SWWICE Organising Chairperson Cleopatra Lajawai said the event reflected a broader movement to promote balanced and sustainable living through local partnerships. 'This expo was more than an exhibition. It was a movement that brought together the 10 Pillars of Sustainable Wholistic Wellness to support individuals, families and communities,' she said. Exhibitors included Lorenzo, Oppein, Homemart, PC Image, 360, Eu Yan Sang, AMSPA, JQ Blind Massage, Bao Zi Tang and several Sabah-based SMEs. The event attracted steady foot traffic throughout the day, with a wide range of visitors engaging in interactive programmes and product demonstrations. Fitness showcases, family zones and daily talks by wellness and business experts added to the hands-on experience for all ages. The public were encouraged to attend the remaining days of the expo, which continued until Sunday, with daily activities from 10am to 8pm. Also present were Novas Academy Director Datuk Karen Lee, Decakila Marketing Director Arnold Chan, QiMag Global Team and Grandmaster Dr Jes TY Lim and invited guests from industry and wellness sectors. * 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
