Our recent exploration of Suria Sabah Shopping Mall in Kota Kinabalu during the Kaamatan season was a truly enriching experience—blending cultural appreciation, local entrepreneurship, and the vibrant energy of the city into one memorable visit.

As we stepped into the mall, we were immediately welcomed by beautifully curated Kaamatan decorations themed “Kotobian Tadau Tagazo Do Kaamatan 2026.” The festive setup brought the spirit of the harvest festival to life, showcasing the deep cultural roots of Sabah’s indigenous communities. 

Traditional-inspired elements, warm colours, and thoughtful displays created an atmosphere that felt both celebratory and meaningful.

What made the experience even more special was the strong presence of local Sabah products being showcased inside the mall. From handmade crafts and traditional snacks to locally produced goods, it was inspiring to see a platform that supports small entrepreneurs and highlights homegrown creativity. 

This initiative not only promotes local businesses but also allows visitors and tourists to appreciate the authenticity of Sabah’s culture in a more tangible way. It’s a wonderful reminder of how modern retail spaces can still play a role in preserving and promoting local heritage.

Beyond the indoor experience, Suria Sabah also offers plenty to appreciate outside the mall. The exterior surroundings provide a lively urban backdrop that is perfect for #OOTD photography. 

With the coastal breeze, city views, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s an ideal spot for casual lifestyle shots or travel content creation while exploring Kota Kinabalu.

Another hidden highlight we came across was a beautiful mural facing one of the main entrances of the building . The artwork adds a refreshing artistic touch to the busy city environment, making it a great visual focal point for photos and storytelling. It’s one of those details that enhances the overall character of the place when you take a moment to observe it.

Our visit to Suria Sabah during Kaamatan season was more than just a shopping trip. It was a well-rounded experience that combined culture, community support, and urban exploration. From festive decorations and local product showcases to street-style photography spots, everything came together beautifully in one location.

The highlight of the visit was definitely the live cultural performances. Traditional dancers in colourful attire took to the stage, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of gong music that instantly captured attention and emotion. 

Each performance told a story of harvest, gratitude, unity, and identity making the experience both entertaining and meaningful.

One of the most beautiful aspects of the event was the strong sense of community. Families, tourists, and locals gathered together, enjoying the performances side by side. The community dance segment stood out the most, as it invited participation and symbolized unity among the people of Sabah and beyond.

What made this visit even more special was that it was our first time seeing this shopping mall host such a large-scale cultural festival like Kaamatan 2026. 

It was impressive how One Borneo Hypermall managed to create an environment that not only supports retail and leisure but also actively promotes local culture and heritage. It maybe an old shopping Mall but still considered a decent one.

This experience highlighted how such spaces can play an important role in preserving traditions. Instead of being confined to villages or cultural grounds, Kaamatan is now celebrated in urban spaces where more people can experience its beauty firsthand.

This visit was not just about watching performances. It was about understanding the deeper meaning of Kaamatan as a harvest festival that celebrates gratitude, unity, and cultural pride. It was inspiring to see how the younger generation and families came together to keep traditions alive in such an engaging way.

The Kaamatan Festival is one of Sabah’s most meaningful cultural celebrations, honouring the harvest traditions, heritage, and identity of the Kadazan-Dusun community. This year, the celebration at ITCC Penampang brought a refreshing blend of tradition and modern presentation, making it an exciting experience for visitors.

This visit was also special as it marked our first time exploring ITCC Penampang shopping mall. Located in the heart of Penampang, the mall offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere. The overall vibe was surprisingly good modern, spacious, and filled with a comfortable energy that makes it a pleasant place to walk around and explore.

During the Kaamatan 2026 showcase, the centre stage featured an engaging activities that highlighted the spirit of Kaamatan through cultural storytelling and visual effects. It beautifully captured the essence of Sabah’s heritage, blending tradition with a contemporary exhibition style.

Adding to the experience, Coca-Cola’s presence brought an extra layer of excitement and refreshment to the event. The collaboration fit naturally into the festive environment, enhancing the overall visitor experience while keeping the focus on celebration and community spirit.

Throughout the visit, the festive decorations, colourful displays, and lively crowd created a warm and immersive atmosphere. It was not just an event display, but a meaningful cultural moment that brought people together to appreciate Sabah’s rich traditions.

Overall, this visit to ITCC Penampang was a memorable one. Both as a first-time exploration of the mall and as a cultural experience during Kaamatan season. It’s definitely a spot worth visiting again, especially when events like this bring the place to life.

The Kaamatan Festival is one of the most meaningful celebrations in Sabah, marking the end of the rice harvesting season and honoring gratitude, unity, and cultural heritage. This year, I had the opportunity to experience the festive atmosphere right in the heart of Kota Kinabalu at Imago Shopping Mall, and it was truly a vibrant celebration from start to finish.

From the moment you step into the centre court, you’re welcomed by a lively festival setup filled with traditional decorations inspired by the Kaamatan spirit. The space was beautifully transformed into a cultural showcase, where every corner reflected the pride of Sabah’s heritage.

The performances throughout the day brought the stage to life. Traditional dances, rhythmic gong music, and cultural showcases highlighted the richness of Sabah and Sarawak’s diverse communities. 

Each performance carried deep meaning, representing gratitude for the harvest and the continuation of cultural traditions passed down through generations.

What stood out most during the event was the strong sense of unity. People from different backgrounds gathered together, enjoying the performances and celebrating the occasion as one community. Kaamatan is not just a festival, it is a reminder of harmony, respect, and togetherness among the people of Sabah.

The energy in Imago Shopping Mall was warm and joyful, with families, tourists, and locals all sharing in the celebration. It truly reflects how culture can bring people together regardless of race or background.

The performances featured traditional costumes, dances, and music that showcased the identity of the Kadazan-Dusun community and other ethnic groups in Sabah. The beating of the gong, the graceful movements of the dancers, and the colorful attire created an unforgettable cultural experience.

It was more than just entertainment—it was a living heritage exhibition that allows visitors to appreciate the depth and beauty of Sabah’s traditions.

If you are in Kota Kinabalu during Kaamatan season, visiting places like Imago Shopping Mall is a must. It is a beautiful way to witness Sabah’s culture, enjoy traditional performances, and feel the spirit of unity that defines this festival.