Symbolism in the Queen of Lepa as the Regatta Lepa Festival of Bajau Semporna Community

Juliana Damsik, Norita Harijaman, Nor Azita Che Din, Rozaimah Rashidin and Nor Suniza Naziha binti Sirhan
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Juliana Damsik: Akademi Pengajian Bahasa, Universiti Teknologi MARA, 40450 Shah Alam, Selangor, MALAYSIA
Norita Harijaman: Akademi Pengajian Bahasa, Universiti Teknologi MARA, 40450 Shah Alam, Selangor, MALAYSIA
Nor Azita Che Din: Akademi Pengajian Bahasa, Universiti Teknologi MARA, 40450 Shah Alam, Selangor, MALAYSIA
Rozaimah Rashidin: Akademi Pengajian Bahasa, Universiti Teknologi MARA, 40450 Shah Alam, Selangor, MALAYSIA
Nor Suniza Naziha binti Sirhan: Akademi Pengajian Bahasa, Universiti Teknologi MARA, 40450 Shah Alam, Selangor, MALAYSIA

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 2024, vol. 8, issue 8, 1323-1329

Abstract: The Regatta Lepa, also known as the Sambulayang Festival, is a celebration of the Bajau community in Semporna, Sabah. This event symbolises a way of life that embodies the people’s history and cultural heritage. Various activities are held during the Regatta Lepa, including water sports, the parade of the most beautiful lepa, and the Queen of Lepa contest. Previous research indicates that many important questions about the meaning of the Queen of Lepa have not yet been fully explored in relation to this celebration. Bajau girls in Semporna are highly enthusiastic about competing in this contest and winning the title of Queen of Lepa. Therefore, this study will examine the symbolism and uniqueness of the Queen of Lepa in the context of the Lepa Regatta. It will also thoroughly identify the distinctive attire and jewellery worn by the Queen of Lepa. An in-depth discussion of the symbolism and uniqueness of the Queen of Lepa clothing and jewellery has revealed that these elements are not solely for the competition but carry symbolic meanings that reflect the identity of the Bajau people. Furthermore, the Queen of Lepa herself symbolises the Regatta Lepa celebration. This research will adopt a quantitative approach, including fieldwork such as interview with informants and observation for data collection purposes.

Date: 2024
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