Semporna: Twelve years ago, a water festival known as the "lepa" regatta attracted only several hundred spectators, mostly locals.
On Saturday, over 10,000 people converged on this small town on the east coast of Sabah to witness the events of the 12th edition of the regatta flagged off by Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Ahmadshah Abdullah.
The spectators, both locals and foreigners, were captivated by the uniqueness of the lepa - a centuries-old boat used by the sea-faring Bajau tribe.
Among the foreign visitors was Australian government pensioner Dr Dale Staraughan, 65, who said he came here to enjoy the uniqueness of the water festival.
"Last year, while visiting Semporna, I saw the lepa for the first time and thought this kind of festival is not held anywhere else. So, I am back here this year," he said.
He hoped to be able to bring several friends from Australia for the festival next year.
"Foreign tourists will love the ambience and uniqueness of this festival," he said.
Roger Yates, 36, of England, said he was elated at being able to learn about the culture of an ethnic group near a part of the world he knew fairly well - Pulau Sipadan, one of the world's best diving havens located offshore Semporna.
"Before this, I only knew about the islands off Semporna, especially Pulau Sipadan, but today I have a chance to see the lepa culture," he said.
"This festival is a bonus for foreign tourists who come to Pulau Sipadan to dive. The Sabah Government's effort to introduce a variety of tourism products will be good for the State," he said.
Susanah Hoplil, 32, who arrived in Semporna two days ago, said she was lucky to be able to witness local culture close-up.
"The culture of the Semporna people is beautiful and unique. I am in love already," said the Brazilian who had planned only to stop over in this town on her way to Pulau Sipadan.
"When I was told that a cultural festival was on in town, I decided not to miss it," said the diving enthusiast.
Hoplil said she had seen different types of cultures in many countries but the lepa regatta was different and very enchanting.
"I hope events like this will be continued," she said.
The lepa regatta was first held in 1994 as a district-level event before being upgraded into a state festival. Since 2003, it has been included as an event in the national water festival.
Courtesy of Bernama
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