KOTA KINABALU: August 19, 2026 – Sabah is set to host the World Indigenous Peoples Day celebration for the second time, with a three-day event running from August 21 to 23 at Hongkod Koisaan, Penampang.
Borneo Dayak Forum President Jeffrey G. Kitingan said the celebration is part of the World Indigenous Peoples Day observed annually on August 9, specifically for the Borneo region involving Sabah, Sarawak, Kalimantan, and Brunei.
He noted that the first celebration in Sabah took place in 2023, followed by Sarawak as host in 2024, and Kalimantan in Palangka Raya in 2025.
“So we have completed one cycle, returning to Sabah. Brunei was supposed to be the host, but Brunei is not yet ready,” he said.
According to him, approximately 250 outside participants from Sarawak, Kalimantan, and Brunei are expected to join this year’s celebration.
He explained that the term “Dayak” encompasses the indigenous peoples of Borneo, comprising various ethnic groups such as Iban, Kadazan, and Murut.
KDCA, as part of the Borneo Dayak Forum, plays a significant role in organising this edition as the host.
He expressed hope that outside participants would return not just with memories, but with more friends and knowledge, and would become ambassadors of friendship for Borneo unity.
