BNF 2026: Reunited to take place May 22 – 24, 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, 20 May 2026: The Borneo Native Festival (BNF) 2026: Reunited will take place from May 22 to 24, 2026 at Central Market Kuala Lumpur, bringing together the rich cultural diversity and heritage of the indigenous communities of Sabah and Sarawak in a vibrant, interactive, and meaningful celebration. 

The festival is organized by Persatuan Sukaseni Kuala Lumpur and marks its fifth edition, reflecting the organization’s continued commitment to introducing, preserving, and celebrating the uniqueness of Bornean ethnic cultures to the wider public, especially younger generations and communities in Kuala Lumpur. Throughout the three-day festival, visitors will be treated to a wide range of exciting activities including traditional cultural performances, handicraft exhibitions, interactive workshops, and showcases by entrepreneurs and vendors from Borneo. 

This year, Borneo Native Festival returns with even more special highlights featuring traditional arts, cultural showcases, heritage crafts, and authentic Bornean flavours. From Sabah’s Kaamatan Festival and Regatta Lepa to Sarawak’s Gawai Dayak and Kaul Festival, the event brings together the beauty of East Malaysian traditions in one colourful and lively celebration.

This year also marks the first-ever collaboration between Persatuan Sukaseni Kuala Lumpur and Kompleks Dayabumi, bringing together an exciting lineup of activities alongside the main festival at Central Market. Activities include sharing sessions, the Junior Cultural Walk, food trucks, local vendors, as well as drawing and coloring competitions. This collaboration is expected to attract more visitors while creating a lively cultural atmosphere in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. 

The festival will also feature appearances and special performances by well-known local artists such as Mimifly, Marsha Milan, Naki, Munirih Jebeni, Tuni Sundatang, Alena Murang, the Sape Ambassador from Yayasan Perpaduan Sarawak, Dabra Sia, and many more exciting acts set to energize the festival stage.

Highlights of the festival include the 5^th edition of the Miss Ethnic Pageant, the 5^th edition of the Borneo Creative Dance Competition, Traditional Handicraft Workshops, Borneo Troops Traditional Parade and live performances by Tuni Sundatang, Alena Murang, Dabra Sia and Sape Ambassadors from Yayasan Perpaduan Sarawak.

According to the Founder of Persatuan Sukaseni Kuala Lumpur, Raffy Syazwan, this year’s festival aims to further strengthen the involvement of Malaysians, especially the Bornean diaspora, in reconnecting with their cultural roots while supporting ongoing efforts to position Malaysia as a competitive cultural tourism destination through continuous collaboration and support from various stakeholders. 

“My hope for this year is to continue empowering Malaysians, especially the Bornean diaspora, so they can once again experience the warmth of home while giving everyone the opportunity to appreciate the richness of our cultural heritage. I also hope that more parties, including government and private sectors, will continue supporting impactful cultural programs in elevating Malaysia as a strong and competitive cultural tourism destination,” he added. 

The organizers also warmly welcome members of the media to cover the festival throughout its duration. Media collaboration plays an important role in expanding outreach and increasing public awareness on the importance of cultural preservation. For further information, media appointments, or inquiries, please contact Ms. Sarah at +6011 6554 3411 or via email at sarahajarusman12@gmail.com.