Sepilok Jazz listed in VMY2026 Promotional Campaign

8 September 2025

SANDAKAN: Friends of Sea Turtles Education and Research (FOSTER) welcomed the announcement that the Sepilok Jazz Festival will be elevated to state-level recognition and incorporated into the Visit Malaysia 2026 promotional campaign.

The announcement was conveyed by Datuk Josie Lai, Permanent Secretary of the Sabah Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment (KePKAS), much to the delight of FOSTER President and festival organiser, Alexander Yee. He expressed confidence that this conservation-driven music festival has the potential to become an iconic Sabah event, attracting both domestic and international visitors while supporting local communities.

“This year’s festival drew around 2,200 visitors, including tourists from abroad, proving that Sepilok Jazz has the capacity to grow into a major event on Sabah’s tourism calendar and eventually be part of the national tourism agenda,” Alexander said in his opening remarks.

Since its inception in 2022, Sepilok Jazz has distinguished itself by placing conservation at its core, particularly the protection of endangered sea turtles.

Proceeds from ticket sales are channelled directly into FOSTER’s conservation fund, supporting turtle hatcheries and other initiatives on Libaran Island and neighbouring areas.

To date, FOSTER has released nearly 48,000 hatchlings into the sea – a significant achievement made possible through collaboration with local communities, government agencies, private partners, and festival supporters.

“Sepilok Jazz is more than a music event. It is a collective voice that unites communities, tourists, artists and conservationists in a shared mission to save sea turtles. Music allows the message of conservation to be communicated in a creative and meaningful way,” Alexander explained.

Beyond conservation, the festival also stimulates Sandakan’s economy. Local vendors, small businesses and tourism operators benefit directly from visitor spending, while international guests take home memorable experiences that strengthen Sandakan’s profile as a global ecotourism hub.

Datuk Josie Lai, who represented Datuk Seri Panglima Christina Liew, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, attended the second night of the festival.

Her presence was welcomed as a demonstration of the State Government’s commitment to positioning Sandakan as a centre not only for orangutan and wildlife tourism, but also for marine conservation.

This year’s two-night programme featured a vibrant line-up of international and local acts, including the Jeremy Monteiro All Star Quartet featuring Tony Lakatos (Singapore/Germany), Fleche d’Or Swing Quartett (Germany), Seoul Fizz (Korea), as well as Sabah talents Sonny B & Wan G, Appy Tot, Cris Aban, Suave Swing, Trinity Jazz Band, Zizi Safira and Hello Papa. The performances showcased the festival’s role in bridging cultures and generations through the universal language of jazz.

“Sepilok Jazz demonstrates how culture, music and conservation can converge to create lasting social and environmental impact. With the support of the State Government, artists, and the wider community, we are confident this festival will continue to grow and place Sabah firmly on the world map as a destination for both jazz and conservation,” Alexander concluded.