28th Regatta Lepa festival in Semporna to attract 50,000 visitors

 

Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment minister Datuk Christina Liew (fifth left) during a press conference of Regatta Lepa festival in Semporna between Nov 17-19. - NSTP/OLIVIA MIWIL

KOTA KINABALU: Semporna is expecting up to 50,000 visitors during the 28th Regatta Lepa festival next month.

Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment minister Datuk Christina Liew said that the event, which will be held between Nov 17 and 19, is an annual celebration in collaboration with the Sabah Tourism Board and the Semporna District Office.

"Semporna has long been recognised as one of Sabah's primary attractions. Its stunning islands and beautiful diving spots make it a global tourism destination. Semporna is also rich in natural beauty, has a vibrant culture, and a captivating history.

"However, Semporna is not just about its natural beauty. It is also home to the Bajau Laut community, renowned for their craftsmanship in building traditional boats known as "Lepa".

"Lepa is not merely a boat but a work of art representing the heritage and cultural identity of Semporna," she said during a press conference at a hotel here.

Among the event highlights are the 'Sanggom Maglami-lami' programme, featuring choir performances and contests for the selection of "Budjang Manis" and "Lalla Dorogan".

There is also a lantern procession featuring Lepa-themed lanterns, presented by students from 10 schools in Semporna.

Other must-see events are the competition and parade of beautiful Lepas and traditional Lepas to the Regatta Lepa square.

"There will also be water sports, such as kayak races and tug-of-war on boats, as well as exhibitions by departments, agencies and craft exhibitions running throughout the day.

"During the event's closing ceremony, there will be announcements and prize presentations for the winners of the 'Sweet Maiden' and 'Lalla Dorongan' contests, as well as the recognition of champions in the 'Beautiful Lepa and Traditional Lepa' competition.

"The evening will be further enhanced with performances by local and guest artists, leading up to a spectacular fireworks display," she said, adding the event would also boost the local economy and promote Semporna as a rapidly growing tourism destination.

Meanwhile, the ministry deputy permanent secretary Alesia Sion said that both the ministry and Semporna district council have been having meetings to organise programmes to ensure the cleanliness of the area.

In August, the federal Tourism, Arts and Culture ministry had warned to issue a red notice to Semporna following complaints from tourists on the town's filthy conditions and lack of hygiene.

Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing had said among the issues that are putting off tourists to Semporna are complaints about its dirty environment, with rubbish strewn about causing a foul stench.

There were also issues, such as, food poisoning, below par hospitality services of dirty towels, pillowcases and sheets among others.

"As for the water disruption issue, the Sabah Water department is also in the committee. We would ensure that the problem would not rise during the festival."

As for accommodations, Bugaya Community Development leader Abdul Hussin Kiamsin said that there are now more hotels and homestays which would be enough for the incoming tourists during the festival.

-nst online.