Kota Kinabalu: Tourism Malaysia welcomed domestic and international visitors with a Kaamatan-themed reception at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) on Friday in conjunction with the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.
The ceremony was attended by Tourism Malaysia Director-General Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Tourism Malaysia Human Resources Division Director Muhamad Nasir Pahmi, Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (Motac) Sabah Director Chong Wai Kit and Sabah Tourism Board Chief Strategy Officer Humphrey Ginibun.
Representatives from airlines, tourism industry players and strategic partners were also present.
The welcoming ceremony was joined by Miss Universe Malaysia 2024 Sandra Lim and Miss World Malaysia 2025 Taanusiya Chetty.
Arriving visitors were greeted with cultural performances, festive decorations and interactive sessions showcasing Malaysia’s hospitality and the spirit of Kaamatan.
They also received souvenirs and sampled traditional local delicacies, including bambangan and losun, providing an introduction to Sabah’s culinary heritage.
Traditional dances and musical performances by local cultural groups further enhanced the atmosphere, offering passengers an authentic cultural experience upon arrival.
The event was symbolically launched with the striking of a traditional gong by Amirul.
Tourism Malaysia said the initiative supports efforts to strengthen cultural tourism and enrich visitor experiences ahead of VM2026, while Kaamatan celebrations across Sabah continue to highlight the State’s cultural heritage and community spirit.
In conjunction with the festivities, an eight-day Mega Fam programme involving 15 influencers and media representatives from the Philippines, Vietnam, China, South Korea and India is being held from May 29 to June 5 to promote Malaysia’s cultural celebrations and tourism offerings.
Malaysia recorded 10.6 million international visitor arrivals as of March 2026, a 5.4 per cent increase from 10.1 million during the corresponding period last year, reflecting continued momentum in the tourism sector under the VM2026 campaign.
