SEMPORNA: The State Government is planning a range of programmes under Visit Sabah Year 2027 to serve as a catalyst in strengthening Sabah’s brand as a world-class tourism destination, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Haji Hajiji Haji Noor.
He said the initiative would not only sustain the positive momentum generated by Visit Malaysia Year 2026 but also ensure the continued growth of a sustainable and inclusive tourism industry.
At the same time, Hajiji said the State Government has intensified and will continue to enhance initiatives, programmes and high-impact events to attract more visitors to the state in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
“This includes programmes such as the Semporna Regatta Lepa, the promotion of community-based tourism and strengthening digital marketing campaigns to attract more international visitors,” he said in his speech at the opening ceremony of the Semporna Regatta Lepa here last night. His speech was read by Youth Development, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy Minister Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan.
Hajiji said the wide range of programmes being planned places Sabah on track to achieve its target of four million visitor arrivals in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026, while laying the groundwork for Visit Sabah Year 2027.
“Last year, Sabah recorded an encouraging performance by welcoming 3.79 million visitors,” he said.
Meanwhile, he said the State Government would continue supporting efforts to strengthen Semporna’s position as a premier cultural and maritime tourism destination in the region.
“In an increasingly modern and challenging world, preserving our cultural heritage is no longer a choice but a shared responsibility to ensure that our identity and heritage are not lost to the passage of time.
“In this context, the State Government continues to prioritise the development of the tourism sector as one of the main drivers of Sabah’s economic growth, with the state’s rich cultural heritage serving as a major attraction for visitors,” he said.
Hajiji said the Regatta Lepa had proven that culture-based events could become high-impact tourism products.
“Every year, thousands of visitors come to Semporna to witness the beauty of the lepa boats, cultural performances, traditional competitions and the wide range of activities on offer.
“The influx of visitors directly benefits hotel operators, tour boat operators, small traders, handicraft entrepreneurs, food and beverage operators, as well as the local community,” he said.
The lepa boat has long symbolised the way of life of the Bajau community in Semporna.
Besides serving as a means of transportation at sea, it also represents the community’s craftsmanship, creativity and artistic excellence.
“It is this uniqueness that makes the Regatta Lepa so special. It showcases the beauty of our culture, customs and the values passed down through generations.
“Heritage such as this must continue to be preserved, as it is an invaluable treasure,” he said.
