PENAMPANG: The prohibition of selling or serving alcoholic drinks in traditional houses during the state-level Kaamatan Festival at the Hongkod Koisaan Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) here is one of the improvements to be implemented this year.
Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam stated that only traditional drinks will be offered to visitors during the two-day celebration.
He said this enhancement aims to improve the comfort and experience of the attendees.
“Open Houses will be held at all traditional houses from May 30 to 31, 2026, starting from 11 AM to 2 PM.
“We will also not allow the sale or serving of alcoholic beverages in traditional houses during these two days, and only traditional drinks will be served. Other beverages can be consumed outside the open house areas,” he said.
He made these remarks at a press conference after chairing the Main Committee Meeting for the Kaamatan Festival for 2026 at the Tan Sri Pairin Hall, Hongkod Koisaan KDCA here on Tuesday.
Joachim, who is also the Chairman of the Main Committee for the State-level Kaamatan Festival 2026, stated that traditional performances and exhibitions will also be conducted according to the schedule set for each traditional house.
He added that several other innovations will be implemented, including the opening of a Kaamatan information counter from May 15 to 31, 2026.
“This is to facilitate tourists and visitors in obtaining information related to the Kaamatan program schedule and the diversity of ethnic cultures in Sabah.
“Additionally, the exhibition area for government agencies will be upgraded through paving works to ensure a more comfortable and organized environment for visitors and exhibitors,” he said.
Source-Sabah Media
