King & Queen of the Pacific Cultural Exchange Week 2026 A Celebration of Heritage, Humanity and the Heart of Kaamatan KOTA KINABALU, SABAH | 26 - 31 May 2026 Feature in Favstyle Magazine | Essentials by Editor-In-Chief Alfred Allen Ginsos

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Group photo with all the KQP Cultural Exchange winner 


Against the backdrop of Sabah's most cherished cultural celebration, the King & Queen of the Pacific (KQP) Cultural Exchange Week: Kaamatan Edition 2026 returns with an inspiring six-day programmed dedicated to cultural appreciation, community engagement and international friendship.

Held from 26 to 31 May 2026 in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, this distinguished initiative continues KQP's vision of fostering meaningful cultural exchange among nations while celebrating the rich heritage, traditions and hospitality of Borneo. Under the theme "Celebrating Culture. Inspiring Unity.", the programme brings together members of the KQP family from across the region for an unforgettable journey of learning, giving and connection.




In conjunction with the annual Kaamatan celebration, KQP continues its cultural exchange initiative by welcoming international titleholders to Sabah, allowing them to experience firsthand the unique traditions, customs and cultural treasures of the Land Below the Wind. Through carefully curated activities, participants gain valuable exposure to the diverse communities that make Sabah one of Southeast Asia's most culturally vibrant destinations.




This year, KQP proudly welcomes King Jerome from the Philippines, who joins the KQP Malaysia and Borneo family as a special guest for a week-long programme centred around cultural immersion, charity outreach, wellness activities and community bonding. His participation symbolizes the strengthening of friendship and mutual understanding between nations while embodying the KQP philosophy of unity through cultural appreciation.

A Week of Culture, Kindness & Community

Designed as more than a ceremonial visit, the KQP Cultural Exchange Week serves as a meaningful platform where heritage meets purpose. Throughout the week, participants will engage in a carefully curated programme encompassing cultural experiences, charity initiatives, wellness activities, community visits and Kaamatan celebrations.

The programme officially begins on 26 May 2026 with the arrival of King Jerome from the Philippines at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA), followed by a courtesy visit and treatment session at Smile Borneo Dental. The opening day sets the tone for a week dedicated to friendship, hospitality and cultural exchange.




On 27 May 2026, delegates will attend the prestigious Randawi Tavantang Kaamatan 2026 Grand Final at the Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA), one of the highlights of the Kaamatan season. The event provides an immersive introduction to the traditions, heritage and cultural pride of Sabah's indigenous communities.




The spirit of compassion takes centre stage on 28 May 2026 with a charity visit to the Holy Family Residence of Senior Citizens, reflecting KQP's unwavering commitment to community service and social responsibility. The day continues with wellness activities including cardio exercise and badminton, promoting healthy living and camaraderie among participants. In the evening, delegates will join an online viewing session of the Sodop Unduk Ngadau State Level 2026, one of Sabah's most celebrated cultural pageantry events.




Continuing its Heart of Giving mission, 29 May 2026 features a meaningful charity visit to Sabah Cheshire Home & Services Kota Kinabalu, where participants will spend time engaging with residents and supporting community initiatives. Wellness activities continue later in the day, followed by attendance at a local entertainment showcase that celebrates talent, creativity and friendship.






A cultural highlight unfolds on 30 May 2026, when delegates embark on a heritage tour of the Traditional Houses, Koisaan Museum and Library (Duchess Joanna) at KDCA. The experience offers a deeper understanding of Sabah's indigenous history, architecture and cultural legacy. Participants will then enjoy a traditional lunch at Housia, featuring authentic local cuisine and strengthen friendships and create lasting memories among members of the KQP family.




The cultural journey reaches its grand finale on 31 May 2026 with attendance at the prestigious Unduk Ngadau State Level Grand Final 2026, one of Sabah's most iconic Kaamatan events. The programme concludes later that evening with a heartfelt farewell as King Jerome departs Sabah, bringing home treasured memories and lifelong friendships forged through cultural exchange.

More Than a Programme, A Legacy

At its core, the King & Queen of the Pacific Cultural Exchange Week embodies the values of unity, kindness, cultural appreciation and service to humanity. Through cultural immersion, charitable outreach, wellness activities and meaningful community engagement, participants become ambassadors of goodwill while celebrating the diversity that enriches the Pacific region.

The initiative reflects KQP's enduring philosophy of the "Heart of Giving", where leadership extends beyond titles and crowns, embracing compassion, service and the ability to inspire positive change within communities.




As Sabah prepares to welcome visitors from across borders during the festive Kaamatan season, the KQP Cultural Exchange Week 2026 stands as a shining example of cultural diplomacy in action, demonstrating how heritage, friendship and shared experiences can build meaningful connections that transcend geography and nationality.

A Partnership in Promoting Culture, Community and Excellence

Further strengthening the significance of the initiative, FAVSTYLE Magazine | Essentials proudly joins the celebration as the Official Media Partner of the King & Queen of the Pacific (KQP) Cultural Exchange Week: Kaamatan Edition 2026.

During the programme, FAVSTYLE Magazine | Essentials Editor-in-Chief, Mr Alfred Allen Ginsos, took the opportunity to formally present the Certificate of Collaboration to the King & Queen of the Pacific (KQP) organisation, recognizing and establishing KQP as an official collaborative partner under the publication's prestigious media network. The presentation signifies a shared commitment towards promoting cultural preservation, community empowerment, international friendship and meaningful social impact.

Speaking on the collaboration, Mr Alfred Allen Ginsos expressed his admiration for the vision, dedication and positive influence of the KQP platform. He described the Cultural Exchange Week as a remarkable initiative that transcends cultural boundaries while fostering unity, goodwill and understanding among communities across the region.


FAVSTYLE Magazine | Essentials Editor-In-Chief Mr Alfred Allen Ginsos presenting the certificate of collaboration to King & Queen of The Pacific National Director Dr Erle Henry


Mr Alfred Allen Ginsos further emphasized that programmers such as the KQP Cultural Exchange Week deserve broader recognition and stronger support from both public and private sectors due to their contribution towards cultural preservation, youth development and charitable outreach. He also commended KQP National Director, Dr Erle Henry, for his unwavering commitment and leadership in championing cultural exchange, humanitarian initiatives and community engagement.

He added that the campaign has been truly inspiring and expressed hope that greater support will continue to be extended to Dr Erle Henry and the KQP organisation, enabling them to further expand their mission and continue creating meaningful opportunities that benefit communities while nurturing the spirit of unity and compassion.




As the curtains close on the King & Queen of the Pacific Cultural Exchange Week: Kaamatan Edition 2026, the event leaves behind more than memorable experiences. It leaves a legacy of friendship, cultural appreciation and community service, proving that when people come together with purpose and compassion, they become a powerful force for positive change.

Celebrating Culture. Inspiring Unity.

From the vibrant traditions of Kaamatan to the warmth of community service, the King & Queen of the Pacific Cultural Exchange Week: Kaamatan Edition 2026 stands as a powerful testament to the enduring values of heritage, humanity and international friendship.






In an increasingly connected world, KQP reminds us that culture remains one of the most powerful bridges between people, demonstrating that regardless of nationality, language or background, we are united by a shared spirit of respect, kindness and understanding.

One Culture. One Heart. One Family.

Published by FAVSTYLE Magazine | Essentials, Official Media Partner of the King & Queen of the Pacific (KQP) Cultural Exchange Week: Kaamatan Edition 2026.


Location: Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

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