Kota Kinabalu: About 50,000 people from within the country and abroad are expected to take part in the 31st edition of Regatta Lepa Semporna 2026, scheduled for June 20 to 28 in Semporna.
State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin, who announced this during the launch ceremony here on Monday, said the week-long event celebrates the rich maritime heritage, culture and traditions of the Bajau community, while showcasing Semporna as one of Sabah’s premier cultural tourism destinations.
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He said the programme would feature a series of cultural, tourism and community activities leading up to the main Regatta Lepa festivities.
“Regatta Lepa remains one of Sabah’s most iconic cultural festivals, attracting thousands of local and international visitors each year,” he said.
“The event serves as a platform to preserve and promote the unique traditions of the Bajau Laut community, particularly the significance of the lepa boat, while strengthening cultural appreciation and tourism development in Semporna.”
The programme will begin on Saturday (June 20), with the raising of Sambulayang at Dataran Bandar Utama from 6pm to 10.30pm.
On Wednesday (June 24), the Ratu Lepa selection round will be held at Dewan Arena Masyarakat, Semporna, from 7am to 5.30pm.
Preparations for the grand event will continue with a full rehearsal the following day, starting at 9am at Padang Bandaran and Dataran Regatta Lepa.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor is expected to officiate the opening ceremony (Maglami-Lami Sangom) on the evening of June 26 at Dataran Regatta Lepa, while the closing ceremony (Sangom Penanghuhan) will be graced by the Head of State Tun Musa Aman on June 27 evening at Padang Pekan Semporna.
Also present at the launch were the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary Datuk Josie Lai Ming Sing, and her deputies Datin Dr Cleopatra @ Claire Asing and Datuk Hjh Nor Asiah Mohd Yusof.
