SEMPORNA: The Lepa Regatta Festival can give a lot of benefits and positive impacts on the economy particularly the State’s tourism industry, said Datuk Seri Musa Haji Aman.
As such, he said the State government had always been supportive of efforts and initiatives by every district to showcase their respective unique cultures and traditions.
“The State government allocated a budget for this year’s regatta through Sri Pelancongan Sabah, an agency under the Sabah Tourism, Culture & Environment Ministry.
“Despite the slow economy and prudent expenditure, the State government remained committed in funding this festival every year to ensure its success,” he said in his speech text read by Assistant Finance Minister Datuk Ramlee Marhaban at the launch of the 23rd Lepa Regatta here on Saturday.
The festival was officiated by the Yang DiPertua Negeri Tun Juhar Mahiruddin.
Musa said the festival which had its own uniqueness and significance was not only celebrated by the Bajau community in the area but the excitement and its uniqueness were enjoyed and celebrated by people from all walks of life in the country.
“This festival had attracted many tourists from inside and outside Sabah, especially those in Semporna.
“And, in my opinion, this festival is the Bajau’s legacy and it should be preserved,” he said.
Continue reading (Incl. Pic) at: Lepa Regatta helps boost Sabah tourism
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