Kota Kinabalu: More than 3,000 people thronged the Sabah Tourism Board (STB) building for this year’s Lampoopalooza as the event made its vibrant return, featuring spectacular light shows, mesmerising performances and a delightful array of food and music.
The weekend crowd erupted in cheers, filling the air with infectious energy as they danced and sang along to a stunning showcase of local talent.
AdvertisementThe STB Building, a heritage site recognised by the State Heritage Council in 2018, was brilliantly transformed into a stunning display of vibrant colours and patterns which left onlookers captivated.
“As we celebrate Lampoopalooza, we embrace creativity, innovation and inclusivity. This wonderful festival of lights is also about bringing our city to life and creating an experience to be enjoyed by all,” said State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew.
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The students are part of Politeknik Kota Kinabalu’s special programme that offers deaf and students with hearing impairments the opportunity to start a career in catering operations.
Advertisement“We are especially proud to team up with the Sabah Society for the Deaf Kota Kinabalu this year, ensuring that this celebration is welcoming and enjoyed by everyone, regardless of ability,” she said.
The text of her speech was delivered by Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
AdvertisementAccording to Liew, Sabah recorded over 3.14 million tourist arrivals in 2024, surpassing its three million target, with 1.26 million international visitors and 1.88 million domestic tourists, generating an estimated RM7.28 billion in tourism receipts.
“These numbers highlight Sabah’s strong appeal as a travel destination. More importantly, they reflect the dedication of everyone in our tourism sector and the confidence visitors have in our beautiful state,” she added.
Since its inception, Lampoopalooza has played a significant role in revitalising Gaya Street, a historic area that has transformed into a bustling hub of cafes, restaurants and hotels.
The event first took shape in 2018 when the Sabah Tourism Board celebrated the building’s 100th anniversary with a street event, inspiring an annual tradition that continues to grow.
Now in its third edition, Lampoopalooza has evolved beyond artistic innovation to incorporate social responsibility.
Last year’s emphasis on community engagement earned the Sabah Tourism Board the Best Community Engagement award at the Travel Daily Media Awards
“With initiatives like Lampoopalooza, we aim to make our city more vibrant and welcoming to all. Events like these help us create unforgettable memories while strengthening community engagement,” Liew said.
During the event, Joniston who is also Sabah Tourism Board Chairman led the entourage greeting crowds and visited the various stalls and booths selling various delicacies and wares.
Lampoopalooza brought a spectacular fusion of lights, music, and live performances. Local artists included Isobahtos, DJ Yohan, Maasmona, Dabra Sia, and Tuni Sundatang.
The Sabah Tourism, Culture, and Environment Ministry’s permanent secretary, Datuk Josie Lai, and Sabah Tourism Board Chief Executive Officer Julinus Jeffrey Jimit, as well as the Korean Consul General Yoon Ockchae, Consul General of Japan Yamashita Yoshito and Vice Consul General of Indonesia Lingga Setiawan were present at the event.