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This Spotlight is sponsored by Sabah Tourism Board.
Sabah is known for its beaches, mountains, and wildlife, but this August and September, you can experience another side of the state through Sabah Fest 2026
The month-long celebration of Sabah's diverse cultures, traditions, and communities officially begins on 29 August at the Sabah Tourism Board (STB) building along Gaya Street in Kota Kinabalu, which also marks STB's 50th anniversary.
The city centre will come alive that evening with a street-style celebration featuring live performances, food showcases, and community activities.
From there, the festivities will also spread to different locations across Sabah and beyond
On 5 September, Sabah Fest heads north to the Tip of Borneo in Kudat, where cultural showcases will take place against the scenic meeting point of the South China Sea and the Sulu Sea.
Over in Sandakan, the celebrations will coincide with the Sepilok Jazz Festival on the same day, bringing together music and local culture in one of Sabah's historic towns.
Sabah Fest will also make its way to Peninsular Malaysia on 5 September, with pocket shows at KLIA Terminal 1 and Terminal 2
The showcases will give travellers and Malaysians passing through the airport a preview of Sabah's vibrant cultural scene, so you can get a taste of the state before even boarding your flight.
The festivities will then continue on 18 September at Tawau Airport, offering another opportunity for locals and travellers to experience Sabah's culture.
Sabah Fest was established in 1988 and has since evolved from a straightforward cultural showcase into a dynamic celebration of the state's heritage
Over the years, the festival moved from traditional displays to theatrical productions featuring local legends and folklore, before introducing more accessible open-concept formats in public spaces.
This year, the festival continues that evolution by decentralising its celebrations and bringing interactive cultural experiences directly to communities and travellers.
You can also discover more experiences at the Sabah Tourism Board booth during the MATTA Fair from 4 to 6 September at MITEC, Kuala Lumpur
The booth will showcase cultural tours, community-based tourism, nature adventures, and family attractions.
Be on the look out for the 9.9 Deals, with flash sales offering up to 30% off, subject to terms and conditions.
You can also join exciting games to win attractive prizes and redeem exclusive Sabah merchandise when you purchase tour packages from participating Sabah travel agents at the fair.
Learn more through the Sabah Tourism Board official website.
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