By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: Revellers have been reminded to enjoy the culmination of the Kaamatan Festival on 30 and 31 May at KDCA Hongkod Koisaan here with care and consideration.
Chairman of the State Organising Committee, Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, said that in light of past incidents involving excessive behaviour and late-night disturbances, authorities have tighter enforcement and calls for moderation.
“Let us avoid excess — in eating, drinking, or merrymaking,” said Dr Jeffrey, who is also Deputy Chief Minister I and Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry, at a press conference here yesterday.
“We want this festival to be remembered for its culture and community spirit, not for incidents that go viral for the wrong reasons.”
Security presence will be significantly increased during the main festival days, he said.
Traditional houses, which serve as key cultural showcases, will be monitored to ensure they maintain decorum and cease music operations by 1am.
Those who breach the regulations will be fined up to RM1,000, he said.
While Kaamatan is traditionally a time of open hospitality and celebration, organisers are emphasising the need for restraint, particularly around alcohol consumption.
This year’s theme, ‘Kaamatan for All’, underscores inclusivity and cross-regional collaboration.
Representatives from Sarawak and seven locations across Peninsular Malaysia are participating in traditional competitions such as Unduk Ngadau and Sugandoi.
Plans are even underway for a future Borneo-wide Kaamatan collaboration with Sarawak and Kalimantan, he added.
With cultural events, economic opportunities, and tourism all central to Kaamatan’s mission, officials are hopeful that this year’s celebration will set a new standard.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will launch the event on May 30, while State Governor, Tun Musa Aman will perform the closing on May 31.
