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Borneo Post
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Over 50,000 visitors expected in Labuan for Borneo Floral Festival 2025 in major tourism push
Invited guests and volunteers in a group photo during the pre-BFF event. KUCHING (May 5): Labuan will be hosting the BORNEO FLORA FESTIVAL (BFF) 2025 from July 26 to 30, which is expected to draw more than 50,000 local and foreign tourists to the duty-free island. Organised by Department of Federal Territories, Labuan Corporation and Putrajaya Corporation, the BFF 2025 will also engage several other government agencies and relevant private parties. BFF is inspired by Floria Putrajaya and aims to promote Labuan as a tourist attraction in Borneo. The festival will take place at the Labuan Sea Sports Recreational Park where more than 200,000 species of flora and fauna will be showcased for visitors. Among the 20 floral themes to be exhibited are 'Borneo Rainforest Gem', 'Magical Park', 'Night Light Park', 'Underwater World', 'Instagram Park', 'Artistic Bazaar', 'Duty Free Bazaar', and 'Luxury Oasis Camp'. A promotional booth was launched at the Labuan Airport on May 3 to serve as the pre-BFF event. Meanwhile, a group of more than 1,200 volunteers including local undergraduates took part in the preparation of a seedling nursery and the transplant of 200,000 flower seedlings at Tapak Semaian Pulau Buah. Official BFF ambassador Farah Nadeera (fourth left) in a group photo with the invited guests at the pre-BFF event. A special announcement was also made on the appointment of local artiste Farah Nadeera Zaini as the official ambassador of Borneo Floral Festival 2025 Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa said this year's Borneo Floral Festival is one of the major tourism events promoted by the government to uplift Labuan's economic development, giving a boost to hoteliers, eatery operators and local entrepreneurs. She said Labuan has great potential in tourism development as well as other industries such as finance and oil and gas. She believes the upcoming event will further enhance the island's economic development, bringing about more business to various sectors including hotels, transportation, food and beverage, and accommodation. The government encourages all Malaysians, particularly those from Sabah, Sarawak, as well as Bruneians to actively take part in the BFF 2025. Under the leadership and planning of the Madani Government, several transformation programmes are being implemented to further develop the economy and tourism sector in Labuan. The current scenarios and future development for Labuan include: Official Borneo Floral Festival 2025 ambassador Farah Nadeera poses during the promotional event. 1. International Business and Financial Centre Labuan will continue to play its role as an International Business and Financial Centre (IBFC), attracting global financial institutions. The Labuan IBFC has provided a conducive environment for entrepreneurs particularly in the fields of Islamic finance, digital banking, and fintech. The government aspires to transform Labuan into a digital banking and Islamic finance hub so as to provide a strong ecosystem for the digital banking and fintech industry players. A section of the volunteers help to transplant flower seedlings at Tapak Semaian Pulau Buah. 2. Duty Free Island Labuan is a paradise for duty-free shopping aficionados. As a free port, Labuan offers substantial savings on a plethora of items, from luxury goods to everyday essentials. Labuan is scattered with numerous duty-free outlets, especially around the ferry terminal and Financial Park area. These shops are treasure troves for discounted perfumes and cosmetics from renowned brands like Chanel and Dior, liquor and tobacco products at significant savings, and a variety of chocolates and confectioneries. 3. Infrastructure development The Madani government has set aside RM58 million to develop several major infrastructure projects in Labuan, with emphasis on the improvement of social economy and tourism. One of the major development projects is the first phase of the Labuan Waterfront, which is aimed at drawing in more tourists to give a boost to local tourism. In addition, the government is in the midst of upgrading the utility infrastructure to support economic activities. Federal Territories Department director-general Datuk Seri Noridah Abdul Rahim (front row, third left) poses with the BFF Ambassador team. 4. Digital and Islamic Finance The Labuan Development Blueprint includes the aspiration of seeing the federal territory emerge as the digital and Islamic finance centre. Such plan includes attracting investments in fintech, digital banking, and asset management, with a stronger emphasis on investments for Islamic finance and environmental, social and governance (ESG). These strategic initiatives in terms of tourism and economic development are aimed at positioning Labuan as a vibrant and sustainable tourist destination, creating growth and opportunities for the locals and tourists alike. In a nutshell, Labuan has long become a global business and financial centre that attracts several financial institutions and corporations. Additionally, the federal territory is equipped with modern basic infrastructure including the Labuan Financial Park, Labuan War Memorial, Labuan Airport, and Labuan Ferry Terminal. Apart from the recently-concluded Labuan International Sea Challenge and the forthcoming BFF, the Borneo Arts Festival which will be held in September is expected to attract both local and international participants. Previously, Dr Zaliha had stated that the federal government will continue to give due attention to the economic development in Labuan towards ensuring its development progress is on par with its counterparts in developing countries.
The Star
25-04-2025
- The Star
Seven ways to unwind in Putrajaya
After a long week at work, people often want to spend quality time with family and friends, unwinding over fun activities or a nice meal. Most may know Putrajaya as the country's administrative capital but to its residents, the city also has a more enjoyable side. Amid the bustling city, which is known for its modern architecture, are several recreational areas catering to different interests. The city also has dedicated green spaces filled with flora and fauna for residents and visitors to explore. Here are some places to hang out, have fun or just discover while you are in the city. Ayer@8 Where: Precinct 8 Fee: Free entry Visitors enjoying leisure time with family and friends at Ayer@8, Putrajaya - Putrajaya Corporation (PPJ) Inspired by the promenades in Venice, Italy, this waterfront hub turns into a vibrant area in the evenings. Multi-seater bicycles, children's rides and e-scooters are among rentals available from vendors at RM10 or more. Decorative structures decked out in LED lights also provide Instagrammable backdrops by the lakeside for visitors. Food-wise, more than 10 restaurants and cafes in the area offer a range of options, including local, Middle-Eastern and Thai dishes. Climbing Challenge Park Where: Precinct 5 Enthusiasts trying out the climbing walls at the Climbing Challenge Park. Fee: RM6 for adults and RM3 for students. Equipment such as harnesses, shoes and chalk bags are available for rent at a separate cost. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, this centre gives everyone a chance to try rock climbing without leaving the city. There are five different zones, from beginner to advanced, with the walls reaching up to 20m in height. A climbing wall is also available for children with extra safety mats to cushion any falls. Regular route updates keep the climbing challenges new and exciting for thrill-seekers. This rock climbing spot is also a unique escape from daily life. Putrajaya Steps Where: Precinct 1 Fee: Free entry Putrajaya Steps at the biggest roudabout in the world. — CHAN TAK KONG/The Star There are plenty of nature trails all around Putrajaya but if you have limited time, then you should head to Putrajaya Steps. Situated in Taman Putra Perdana, the 250-step stairway is built at the Guinness World Record-certified biggest roundabout in the world. Those who make it to the top are greeted by a small garden with a tower. But more importantly, visitors get an unbeatable panoramic view of Putra Mosque and the Prime Minister's Office from the highest step. Putrajaya Equestrian Park Where: Precinct 5 Fee: Horse rides cost RM10 for children and RM15 for adults A visitor getting ready to go on a guided ride at the equestrian park. This 28ha equestrian park offers horseback riding and a peek into the equestrian world. It has played host to national and international equestrian competitions, including show jumping and dressage events. Guided horse rides give first-timers an easy introduction to the sport. The ride also provides guests with an exceptional view of Putrajaya's iconic architecture from within the park. Lessons are available for those wanting to learn how to ride on their own. After a day of activities, you can relax at the on-site cafe, which offers light bites. Agriculture Heritage Park Where: Precinct 16 Fee: RM5 for locals and RM10 for foreigners Visitors learning traditional farming methods with a guide at Agriculture Heritage Park. Visitors can find a variety of local produce on sale alongside a working farm at this park. The park also offers a glimpse into traditional farming methods for crops such as padi. Guides are on hand to explain the process of rubber tapping as well as harvesting cacao and coffee. Local fruits such as durian, jackfruit and mangosteen and a selection of herbs and spices can be found on the farm too. Lake Recreation Centre Where: Precinct 1 Fee: Water rides are RM10 to RM25 on weekdays and RM15 to RM30 on weekends Visitors enjoying their time on the water at Lake Recreation Centre. - Putrajaya Corporation If chilling by the lake and water activities are your cup of tea, this centre is a must-visit. The laid-back atmosphere and calm Putrajaya lake provides a serene experience for visitors. For those keen to get on the water, paddle boats, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards can be rented from the centre. Anglers are often spotted fishing here and if you want to give it a try, fishing rods are also available for rent. Cycling trails Where: All throughout the city Fee: Free entry Residents cycling on one of many trails in the city. The city is a cycling paradise for enthusiasts as there are tracks that snake throughout Putrajaya, including neighbourhoods and parks. These trails are well maintained, according to cyclists, and offer enjoyable rides at different difficulties. It is a good way to explore the buildings and natural landscape without breaking the bank. Putrajaya Wetlands Park and Botanical Garden are worth a visit if you have the time, as cyclists often get the opportunity to observe wildlife along the trails. Be sure to check opening hours before embarking on a journey at either park as both places are not open all-day long.
