Plan your Kaamatan trip with tips, local know-how, and easy guides to help you enjoy Sabah to the fullest.
Kaamatan is Sabah’s annual harvest festival, celebrated every May. It’s a time to give thanks for a good rice harvest and is one of the biggest cultural celebrations in the state, filled with traditional music, dance, and local food.
Kaamatan is celebrated throughout the month of May, with the main celebrations taking place on 30 and 31 May. This is when you’ll see the most events, performances, and festive activities happening.
Kaamatan is celebrated with cultural performances, traditional dances like the Sumazau, music competitions, and local food fairs. The main festivities are held at KDCA in Penampang, but you’ll also find smaller celebrations and cultural experiences across Sabah.
Kaamatan is one of the best times to visit Sabah if you want to experience local culture up close. Beyond the festival, it’s also a great time to explore islands, highlands, and other attractions while the festive atmosphere is happening across the state.
You can enjoy a mix of festival experiences and sightseeing. Visit cultural villages, join city tours, go island hopping, or head up to Kundasang for cooler weather and scenic views. It’s easy to combine a bit of everything into one trip.
