by David E.
KOTA BELUD: Oct 15, 2026 – Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) final-year student Nabilah Samsuddin was crowned Ratu Serimpak champion in conjunction with Tamu Besar Kota Belud 2026 after defeating nine other contestants on the main stage at the celebration venue on Wednesday.
Nabilah, from Kg Penampang, Kota Belud, took home RM3,000 and accompanying prizes. The prizes were presented by the wife of the Tempasuk assemblyman, Datin Sarina Mohd Yaakub.
Second place went to Puteri Asyiqin Datu Abdullah Azan from Kg Timbang Dayang, while Harnie Norhidayah Muhiddin from Kg Siasai was third.
Ratu Serimpak is a traditional beauty pageant and cultural fashion show of the Bajau Samah community. It is a highlight of Tamu Besar Kota Belud, an annual festival that began in 1878. Contestants wear Badu Sipak, complete with a serimpak or sarimpak, the headdress that gives the competition its name.
In the Tanjak Pahlawan category, Mohd Irfan Abd Rakman from Kampung Kesapang emerged champion after defeating nine other contestants. He also took home RM3,000 and accompanying prizes presented by Datin Sarina.
First runner-up went to Muhd Aiqal Aiman from Kg Pirasan, while Fadzley Izzani Lamsin from Kg Taun Gusi was third.
The competition serves as a cultural ambassador in preserving the traditional attire, customs and heritage of Kota Belud, while strengthening the Bajau Samah identity.
– TV Sabah
