The CEO Masterclass 2025, held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), was an opportunity for Sabah’s business leaders to discuss challenges and strategies for overcoming them.
Kenji Yeo, CEO of Amazing Borneo Tours and founder of SabahTravel.com, shared his journey of leadership, resilience, and innovation that has helped shape both adventure tourism and the digital tourism landscape in Sabah.
Overcoming Adversity: The 2015 Earthquake and the Birth of SabahTravel.com
Kenji’s leadership was truly tested during the 2015 Mount Kinabalu earthquake, a time that saw immense challenges both for his company and for the families of climbers on the mountain. Despite the emotional toll and logistical challenges, Kenji and his team were able to quickly respond to the crisis, setting up an emergency hotline and providing crucial information to worried families. This experience ultimately led to the creation of SabahTravel.com, an integrated platform that connects tourists with local providers for a seamless travel experience.
"In 2015, when the earthquake struck, we were drowned with calls from panicked customers, even from Bomba (Fire department) and hospitals,” Kenji explained, “It was a very stressful time, but we had to think on our feet, set up an emergency hotline, and respond to worried families. That period taught me more than any other challenge we’ve faced. Money couldn’t resolve those situations; only resilience and a strong team could."
Amazing Borneo: Leadership in Adventure Tourism and the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark Partnership
Kenji’s leadership also extends to Amazing Borneo Tours, which is proud to be the Official Partner to the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark. This partnership plays a key role in preserving and promoting Sabah’s unique geological heritage, biodiversity, and cultural aspects. Through sustainable tourism practices, Amazing Borneo contributes to the Geopark’s mission of protection, education, and community engagement.
"Sabah’s natural beauty and biodiversity are our biggest assets,” said Kenji, “We’re proud to be part of the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark, where sustainability and responsible tourism go hand in hand."
Kenji also expressed pride in the team at Amazing Borneo, particularly Operations Director Dr. Lesley Hiew. Starting out as an executive, Lesley rose through the ranks with dedication, hands-on experience, and a deep passion for the industry. During the COVID-19 pandemic, while tourism paused, he pursued higher education, earning his degree and eventually completing a PhD in Business Management. His research, focused on empowering mountain guides within the Kinabalu UNESCO Global Geopark, reflects the same values of community and sustainability that define Amazing Borneo’s mission.
Kenji (right) and Amazing Borneo's Operations Director Dr. Lesley Hiew.
Key Leadership Insights from the CEO Masterclass
Kenji’s insights on resilience and collaboration resonated throughout the masterclass. He believes that businesses must be adaptable and collaborative in order to succeed. His leadership has influenced the culture at Amazing Borneo Tours, making it a company that thrives on innovation, resilience, and sustainability.
"In the face of adversity, having a resilient team and being able to make decisions quickly was critical,” Kenji shared, “That mindset also helped us through the COVID-19 crisis, which, though financially difficult, was nothing compared to the emotional toll of the earthquake."
Kenji and the Amazing Borneo team.
Conclusion
Kenji’s leadership and his vision for the future of Sabah’s tourism continue to shape the landscape. With his focus on sustainability, adventure tourism, and community engagement, Kenji has created a model for others to follow. Amazing Borneo Tours remains at the forefront of the industry, offering travellers the chance to experience Sabah’s natural wonders through a sustainable, adventure-driven lens.
"I truly love Sabah,” Kenji admitted, “It’s a place where you can reach islands, malls, the airport, and all infrastructure within 20 minutes. My vision has always been to showcase Sabah’s unique offerings to the world and make it easier for people to experience everything this beautiful state has to offer."
Kenji’s journey is a reminder that success is not just about financial gains but about making a lasting, positive impact on both places and people.
