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Kota Kinabalu: Some 3,000 visitors attended the 2026 Kota Kinabalu City (DBKK) Level Kaamatan Festival celebration, which took place in a lively atmosphere as an important platform for preserving the State’s cultural heritage.

Kota Kinabalu Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Sabin Samitah said the celebration not only maintains local community traditions but also contributes to the growth of the city’s tourism and economic sectors.

“The Kaamatan Festival is not just a harvest festival; it is a symbol of gratitude, unity and harmony among the multi-ethnic society in Sabah.

“Celebrations such as this are vital for Kota Kinabalu City because they strengthen cultural heritage, tighten community bonds and contribute to the vibrancy of the city’s tourism and economy,” he said at the 2026 Kota Kinabalu City Level Kaamatan Festival opening ceremony, here, Sunday.

The event was officiated by Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, representing Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.

The celebration was enlivened by various cultural performances, including the Welcoming Dance (Tarian Sambut Tamu) and the symbolic “Mongomot Parai” or rice harvesting ceremony, as a symbol of the tradition and cultural heritage of the Kadazandusun community.