KOTA KINABALU: 30 May 2026
Tourism Malaysia welcomed domestic and international visitors through a vibrant Kaamatan celebration held in conjunction with the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA).
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.
Visitors arriving at the airport were greeted with cultural performances, festive decorations and interactive welcoming sessions reflecting Malaysia’s hospitality.
They also received souvenirs and were treated to traditional local delicacies such as bambangan (wild mango) and losun (wild chives), offering a memorable introduction to Malaysia’s diverse culinary heritage.
The atmosphere was further enlivened by traditional dances and musical performances by Sabah cultural groups, creating an authentic cultural experience for arriving passengers.
The event was symbolically launched with the striking of a traditional gong by Amirul.
Celebrated annually in May, the Kaamatan Festival honours the spirit of rice known as Bambaazon and serves as a symbol of gratitude, unity and cultural pride among Sabah’s indigenous communities.
The initiative is in line with Tourism Malaysia’s efforts to strengthen cultural tourism and enhance visitor experiences in preparation for VM2026.
Kaamatan celebrations are taking place across Sabah on May 30.
In conjunction with the festivities, an eight-day Mega Fam programme involving 15 influencers and media representatives from Southeast Asia, East Asia and South Asia — including the Philippines, Vietnam, China, South Korea and India — is being held from May 29 to June 5.
The programme aims to promote Malaysia’s cultural celebrations and strengthen the country’s position as a tourism destination rich in cultural diversity and unique tourism products.
As of March 2026, Malaysia recorded 10.6 million international visitor arrivals, an increase of 5.4 per cent from 10.1 million arrivals during the corresponding period last year.
The performance reflects the strong momentum of Malaysia’s tourism industry under the VM2026 campaign.
Through celebrations such as Kaamatan and Gawai, Tourism Malaysia continues to promote Malaysia as a destination that combines culture, heritage and authentic experiences.
The efforts are aligned with the objectives of VM2026 to stimulate tourism growth, encourage repeat visits, promote sustainable tourism development and strengthen the identity of Malaysia’s multicultural society.
