Kuala lumpur: The organisation of the three-day Regatta Lepa festival, whose 31st edition this year concluded today, has successfully opened up broader tourism collaboration between Sabah, Malaysia, and the North Kalimantan region in Indonesia.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the acting head of the Indonesian consulate-general (KRI) in Tawau, Dino Nurwahyudin, stated that through the cultural festival, the consulate presented various attractions with the special theme "Wonderful Indonesia." He expressed optimism that this network of cooperation would enable foreign tourists visiting Sabah, particularly in Semporna, to extend their visits to Indonesia and vice versa.
In efforts to enhance connectivity, Dino mentioned that direct flights between Tawau and Tarakan, which were halted during the COVID-19 pandemic, are in the process of being reopened. "An Indonesian airline is scheduled to reactivate the commercial route by July or August," he informed.
Dino elaborated that the reopening of the air route would foster a more seamless connection, facilitating the movement of visitors and tourists between the two nations. He added, "The move is also believed to generate sustainable economic growth for the people, considering that tourism is one of the main sources of income for Sabah and North Kalimantan."
He emphasized the significant ripple effect of this tourism collaboration, noting that it would directly benefit sectors such as hospitality, handicrafts, and the food industry. This, in turn, would aid small business owners and entrepreneurs in Semporna and North Kalimantan.
Dino, who attended the traditional festival for the first time, also acknowledged the Sabah state government for providing excellent facilities and the best boat for KRI in Tawau during the celebration.
Meanwhile, Chen Xiuying, a marine biologist from Hainan, China, praised the festival for its blend of cultural preservation and environmental awareness. She remarked on the impressive sight of the meticulously carved perahu lepa floating in Semporna's waters, which she described as more than just a tourist attraction.
Chen observed that the vibrant celebration reflected the local community's deep connection to their marine environment, offering an authentic and ecologically significant experience. She noted the unique wisdom of the Bajau people in sustainably coexisting with the ocean's biodiversity for centuries.
Marcus Vee, a banker from Sembawang, Singapore, shared his enthusiasm for the festival's vibrant atmosphere. He appreciated how the Regatta Lepa provided a refreshing escape and demonstrated the economic benefits of cultural heritage to local businesses and micro-entrepreneurs.
Vee highlighted the traditional igal dance performances on moving boats as a trip highlight, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the deep maritime roots of the Semporna community.