KOTA KINABALU: The Dalit Bay Nautica Carnival (DNBC) 2025 was launched Monday, at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here in an effort to promote more coastal potential in Sabah.
The launch was officiated by Pantai Dalit Assemblyman Datuk Jasnih Daya, said a sustainable and prosperous future driven by culture, commerce and connectivity is being built through the Dalit Bay Maritime Economic Development Plan 2026–2030.
He said DBNC will not only redefine Tuaran’s coastal potential but also position Sabah as a serious player in international nautical tourism.
window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []};googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.defineSlot('/22826383987/dailyexpress_inline', [1, 1], 'gpt-passback').addService(googletag.pubads());googletag.enableServices();googletag.display('gpt-passback');});“This initiative marks the beginning of a long-term transformation for Tuaran and Beyond,” he said.
DBNC Chairman cum The Genuine Brands Managing Director Prof Dr Jeffery Yap said the carnival is designed to bring visitors, economic activity and international exposure to Tuaran.
He said it is not just an event but a movement to place Tuaran on the global coastal map.
“Through multi-stakeholder partnerships and ESG-based planning, we are elevating this region with authenticity, strategy, and long-term value,” he said.
Jeffery said the three-day carnival, scheduled to run from 25 to 27 July, is organised by The Genuine Brands in collaboration with Sail Malaysia.
He said the event aims to bring in 29 yachts from 16 countries under the Tuaran Rally, alongside local highlights such as the Oyster Royale MasterChef Competition, the Sea Dragon Cup and a Meet and Greet with Unduk Ngadau and Mr Kaamatan 2025 winners.
Sail Malaysia Managing Director Sazli Kamal Basha said the organisation brings over a decade of international sailing expertise.
He said they are proud to serve as the official maritime partner of DBNC 2025.
“Through the Tuaran Rally and our international network, we are bringing yachts, exposure, and economic momentum to Sabah,” he said.
Also present were KDCA Women's Council Chairperson Datuk Joanna Kitingan, SICC Chief Executive Officer Datuk Dr Rosmawati Lasuki, Sail Malaysia Tuaran Rally Chairman Datuk Mohd Pintaz Badar and DBNC Chairwoman Joanne Kimberley J Majalap.
