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PENAMPANG: The 2026 Kaamatan Festival Unduk Ngadau pageant will feature a new pre-judging round, with only 25 finalists advancing to the grand final, said Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.

Joachim, who chairs the state Kaamatan organising committee, said the pre-judging will be held on May 30, followed by the final on May 31, as part of efforts to improve quality and competitiveness.

The Kaamatan Festival will officially launch on May 1 in Papar, with the Prime Minister expected to attend the main events on May 30 and 31, and the Head of State on May 31.

To improve visitor experience, an information counter will operate from May 15 to 31, while shuttle buses will be provided on May 30 and 31 to ease congestion at the KDCA grounds.

Additional LED screens will be installed for live viewing, and upgrades have been made to traditional houses and exhibition areas. 

Open house activities will run on May 30 and 31 from 11am to 2pm, with cultural performances, exhibitions, and competitions throughout the festival.