Friday, March 03, 2006

Sabah's Bajau water festival enters Malaysia tourism calendar


KUALA LUMPUR: This year’s Regatta Lepa in Sabah is expected to be a big hit among tourists as the event has been included in the annual tourism calendar.

It is the first time the traditional Bajau water festival, which has been held consecutively over the past 13 years, is listed as a tourist attraction.

The event is scheduled for April 14 to 16.

Domestic Trade and Consumers Affairs Minister Datuk Shafie Apdal said the organiser was expecting a 30% increase in turnout

“The sea festival offers great potential for boosting tourism in the district.”

He said the Regatta would also help promote Semporna and Sipadan Island, which is nearby.

Shafie said the festival would indirectly pave the way for more economic activities among locals.

F&R Exhibition and Conference Sdn Bhd chairman, retired admiral Tan Sri Abu Bakar Abdul Jamal, said this year's festival would be special.

“The event is to remember the Bajau for their skills in building colourful boats.”

The Lepa boat is made of red seraya wood. The tradition of making the boats was inherited by the Bajau who have been seafarers for generations.

Abu Bakar said that 30 boats from islands in the district would participate in the event.

“The festival promises great moments for everybody,” he said.

Source: The Star

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