Joniston (third right) launching Lampoopalooza 2025, joined by Lai (second right); Julinus (right); Vice Consul General of Indonesia in Kota Kinabalu Lingga Setiawan; Korean Consul General in Kota Kinabalu Yoon Ockchae; and Japanese Consul General in Kota Kinabalu Yamashita Yoshito. – photo courtesy of STB
KOTA KINABALU: The vibrant Lampoopalooza returned this year with a strong emphasis on inclusivity as the Sabah Tourism Board (STB) partnered with the Sabah Society for the Deaf Kota Kinabalu to ensure the celebration was accessible to all.
The celebration of creativity, innovation and lights took centre stage at the historic STB building on Gaya Street here last night.
Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew, in a speech delivered by her Assistant Minister and STB Chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, highlighted the importance of making tourism events inclusive for everyone.
“We are especially proud to team up with the Sabah Society for the Deaf Kota
Kinabalu this year, ensuring that this celebration is welcoming and enjoyed by
everyone, regardless of ability,” she said.
Further promoting inclusivity, the Lampoopalooza event saw the participation of students from Politeknik Kota Kinabalu in selling food and beverages.
These students are part of Politeknik Kota Kinabalu’s Program Sijil Khas Operasi
Katering, a special programme that offers deaf and hard-of-hearing students the
opportunity to start a career in catering operations.
Liew commended their participation, noting that it not only enhanced the event
experience but also provided valuable career-building opportunities.
The event also highlighted Sabah’s ongoing success in the tourism sector.
According to Liew, Sabah recorded over 3.14 million tourist arrivals in 2024,
surpassing its 3 million target, with 1.26 million international visitors and 1.88 million domestic tourists, generating an estimated RM7.28 billion in tourism receipts.
“These numbers highlight Sabah’s strong appeal as a travel destination. More
importantly, they reflect the dedication of everyone in our tourism sector and the
confidence visitors have in our beautiful state,” she added.
Since its inception, Lampoopalooza has played a significant role in revitalising Gaya Street, a historic area that has transformed into a bustling hub of cafes, restaurants and hotels.
The event first took shape in 2018 when the STB celebrated the building’s 100th anniversary with a street event, inspiring an annual tradition that continues to grow.
Now in its third edition, Lampoopalooza has evolved beyond artistic innovation to
incorporate social responsibility.
Last year’s emphasis on community engagement earned the STB the Best Community Engagement award at the Travel Daily Media Awards.
“With initiatives like Lampoopalooza, we aim to make our city more vibrant and
welcoming to all. Events like these help us create unforgettable memories while
strengthening community engagement,” said Liew.
Lampoopalooza brought a spectacular fusion of lights, music, and live performances.
Local artists included Isobahtos, DJ Yohan, Maasmona, Dabra Sia and Tuni Sundatang.
The Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry’s Permanent Secretary Datuk Josie Lai and STB Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jeffrey Jimit were also present.
