Semporna: This year's Regatta Lepa Semporna is expected to attract more than 50,000 visitors, providing a significant economic boost to the local community in the district.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sabah Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Datuk Seri Jafry Ariffin stated that the 31st edition of the celebration, themed "Regatta Lepa: Cultural Charm, Global Attraction," is scheduled to take place over three days beginning June 26 in Semporna. The influx of domestic and international tourists for the event is anticipated to stimulate Semporna's economic value chain, particularly in the hospitality, transportation, food and beverage, and local handicraft creative industries.

"The organisation of Regatta Lepa is expected to invigorate the local economy through increased demand for accommodation, food and beverages, transportation, handicrafts, and tourism products. It also supports tourism promotion efforts in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026," he told a press conference today.

Regatta Lepa is a traditional celebration and one of Sabah's iconic cultural events, symbolising the maritime heritage of the Bajau community in Semporna. It began as a tribute to the lepa boat, once the community's primary mode of transportation, before evolving into a prestigious international-level event.

Meanwhile, Regatta Lepa Semporna Organising Committee chairman Mas Syazwan Masood, who is also the Semporna District Officer, said this year's edition features a packed programme lineup designed to showcase the cultural heritage of the Bajau Laut community. The event will open on June 26 with the Sangom Maglami-Lami Night at Regatta Lepa Square, featuring ethnic dance performances, a traditional costume showcase, and the Miss Lepa 2026 pageant, which is scheduled to be officiated by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.

"In addition to the highlight events of the Traditional Lepa and Decorated Lepa Procession on the morning of June 27, the committee has also included a series of Sea Sports events such as boat races, plate diving, and boat tug-of-war competitions," he said.

Mas Syazwan added that the Sangom Penangguhan ceremony on June 27 at the Semporna Town Field will be officiated by Sabah Yang Dipertua Negeri, Tun Musa Aman. Apart from the main programmes, side events including the Lepa Run, local entrepreneur sales booths, and the Lepa Golf tournament will also be held on June 28 to further enhance the cultural festival.