In fact, the state now boasts the world's best scuba diving center too.

Number one, baby!

Dive Magazine's annual Travel Awards have named a Sabah-based dive operator as the 'Best Scuba Diving Dive Centre or Resort in the World for 2020', New Straits Times reported.

According to the report, Scuba Junkie beat out over 1,000 scuba diving centers around the world to come out on top.

The winners of the Travel Awards were chosen based on votes from Dive Magazine's readers, so you could say that Scuba Junkie is indeed the best of the best.

Oh, we Malaysians have another reason to celebrate, as Malaysia was also ranked number three in the 'Best Destination' category for diving spots in the world.

So much love for Malaysia!

Scuba Junkie founder and director Richard Owen told the daily that they are absolutely honoured to be given the title, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic has badly affected the tourism industry.

"We are honoured to have won this award. It has been a difficult year for everyone, so it's heartening to have the ongoing support from our guests in this way," he was quoted as saying.

Owen added that Scuba Junkie will continue to protect and preserve the marine environment, a positive trait that probably influenced readers who voted for them.

"We have a strong focus on marine conservation that resonates with our guests. Conservation of the local environment, both above and below the waves, has been at the heart of Scuba Junkie, right from our inception."

NST reported that Scuba Junkie began operating on Pulau Sipadan in 2004, and they later moved to Mabul Island in 2009.