THE Federal Territory of Labuan is set to dazzle locals and tourists alike this July as it plays host to the inaugural Borneo Flora Festival 2025, a large-scale celebration of nature featuring more than 200,000 vibrant flowers and plants displayed across 20 intricately designed exhibition gardens.
Bernama cited Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa, saying the festival is expected to draw upwards of 50,000 visitors from across Malaysia, while active outreach is underway to attract tourists from neighbouring Brunei.
“This is not just a visual feast of beautiful flowers, but also a symbol of our nation’s rich biodiversity and a potential value-added boost to Malaysia’s horticulture industry,” she said during the festival’s pre-launch ceremony at the Labuan International Sea Sports Complex Recreational Park today.
Marking a first for the island, the event will bring together a diverse mix of floral enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, landscape artists and exhibitors from all over the country.
According to Dr Zaliha, the festival is being organised with strong support from a wide network of strategic partners, including hotels, transport operators (both land and sea), government agencies, local communities, and media organisations.
The minister also underscored the broader vision behind the festival, describing it as a key initiative under the Labuan Tourism Task Force, aimed at further diversifying the island’s appeal beyond its well-known beaches and diving spots.
“While Labuan is known for its beaches and diving sites, more engaging programmes like the Borneo Flora Festival are needed to enhance the island’s tourism appeal,” she said.
The chosen venue, Labuan Sea Sports Recreational Park, was hailed as particularly strategic, offering visitors the chance to explore colourful floral installations while enjoying panoramic seaside views.
“It offers dual benefits, allowing visitors to enjoy the floral displays while taking in the scenic view of Mawilla Beach, located right next to the event site,” Dr Zaliha noted.
She also highlighted the government's focus on inclusive and sustainable development for Labuan, stating that Labuan Corporation would collaborate closely with the Department of Federal Territories to ensure the festival reaches a wide audience — including outreach efforts to schools to inspire appreciation for horticulture and environmental stewardship among younger generations.
The Borneo Flora Festival 2025 is poised to be a landmark event on Malaysia’s cultural calendar, celebrating both natural beauty and national identity — all while strengthening Labuan’s profile as a dynamic, family-friendly destination. – April 11, 2025
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