Labuan: Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia, today graced the inaugural Borneo Flora Festival 2025 at the Labuan International Sea Sports Complex, marking a historic celebration of Borneo's vibrant floral and cultural diversity.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the event, themed 'Borneo Tropical Flora', featured a showcase of traditional Borneo performances, including the Magunatip, a rhythmic bamboo dance performed by the Murut community of Sabah. The cultural extravaganza set a lively tone as the festival welcomed visitors from across Malaysia and beyond.
Her Majesty, who arrived in Labuan earlier today for a two-day official visit, was warmly welcomed by dignitaries such as the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa, Sarawak Governor's wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, Puan Sri Maheran Jamil, and Kuala Lumpur City Hall Mayor Datuk Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif.
During her visit, Her Majesty toured intricately crafted themed gardens designed by participating government agencies, local communities, and NGOs. The gardens showcased creativity and appreciation for Borneo's biodiversity and cultural landscapes.
In a special moment, Her Majesty was presented with a rare black orchid from Sabah as a souvenir, symbolizing the rich botanical treasures of Borneo.
The Borneo Flora Festival 2025, the first of its kind, was initiated under the Federal Government's effort through the Department of Federal Territories (JWP) and its agencies, aiming to catalyze socio-economic growth and position Labuan as a regional eco-tourism and cultural destination.
Thousands of floral species, including rare orchids, pitcher plants, and tropical blooms from Labuan, Sabah, Sarawak, and other parts of Malaysia, were on display, attracting gardening enthusiasts, photographers, and families.
Tomorrow, Her Majesty is scheduled to officiate the grand opening of the newly established Labuan Handicraft Gallery, supporting local artisans and cultural heritage.
The Borneo Flora Festival 2025 is expected to become an annual tourism calendar highlight, reflecting Labuan's transformation into a more vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable island destination.