LABUAN: The Borneo Flora Festival (BFF) 2025, which kicks off tomorrow, is already delivering strong economic momentum across Labuan, drawing thousands of visitors for its five-day floral and cultural extravaganza.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories), Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa, said the scale of the event has triggered a major local mobilisation effort, benefiting businesses and communities throughout the island.
“We’re seeing a surge of visitors arriving in Labuan, and this is directly translating into business for local hotels, restaurants, homestay operators, and even homeowners who are now opening up their residences to accommodate the demand,” she told Bernama after touring the final preparations at the Labuan International Sea Sports Complex today.
Preliminary estimates suggest the festival could generate over RM20 million in revenue for local traders and businesses, driven by strong demand for goods, services, and accommodations.
“We’re expecting over 50,000 visitors over the five days. Based on our calculations, each is projected to spend around RM400 during their stay,” she added.
Hosted in the heart of Labuan town, the BFF features vibrant floral displays, cultural performances, traditional craft showcases, and participation from regional and international delegates — including representatives from Kalimantan, Indonesia, as well as dignitaries from Sabah and Sarawak.
Adding royal prestige to the event, Her Majesty the Raja Permaisuri Agong will officiate the opening ceremony, accompanied by the Prime Minister’s spouse and the wives of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sabah and Sarawak.
“This isn’t just a tourism celebration — it’s a powerful economic catalyst,” Dr Zaliha said. “It’s creating income opportunities across logistics, hospitality, transport, food services, and the cultural economy.”
She also praised the joint efforts of Labuan Corporation, the Federal Territories Department, Kuala Lumpur City Hall, Putrajaya Corporation, and local community groups in preparing the island for the visitor influx.
The festival is part of the Federal Territories’ broader strategy to position Labuan as a key cultural and tourism hub, with more major events planned to further drive economic development.
Local stakeholders have reported sharp increases in preorders for traditional foods, floral souvenirs, boat transport services, and private shuttles.
“This is a timely boost to Labuan’s economic ecosystem,” Dr Zaliha added. “The active involvement of the community — from homeowners turning their spaces into homestays to small vendors scaling up supply — shows how inclusive and impactful this event is.”
The Borneo Flora Festival 2025 will run from July 26 to 30.
