KOTA KINABALU: An assemblyman here has called upon the state legislative assembly to help ensure that the Regatta Lepa does not lose its significance in Sabah. The festival, held annually in Semporna, pays homage to the lepa – a traditional single-mast sailing boat of the state’s Bajau community. "This state-level tourism event must be elevated to remain competitive as one of the main tourist attractions (in) Semporna," he added. Nasir said that among aspects which need to be looked into is new infrastructure at the event’s various venues in the district, such as safe and attractive jetties. "This is because jetties are not only for docking boats – (they) may also attract guests to the area," he reasoned.

Source: New Strait Times November 20, 2017 12:11 UTC