TAWAU, 19 June 2026 – Tawau is set to carve out a major milestone in the regional tourism and creative sectors with the debut of the Borneo International Clown Convention (BICC) 2026. This prestigious world-class event marks the first time an international clowning convention has ever been hosted in Sabah.
Scheduled to take place over three days from 3 to 5 August 2026 at Calvary Tawau, the landmark gathering is organized by C Design Production Sdn. Bhd. It is proudly supported by the Sabah Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment (KePKAS), the Sabah Tourism Board (STB), the Sabah Convention Bureau, and Sri Pelancongan Sabah.
Speaking at the BICC 2026 press conference yesterday, Assistant Minister of KePKAS, Dr. Andi Md Shamsureezal Mohd Sainal, revealed that the convention has already secured approximately 300 participant registrations. This includes 53 international delegates hailing from the United States, Mexico, Japan, India, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Indonesia, Myanmar, and Thailand. Beyond industry professionals, the event is projected to draw over 500 local and international visitors.
“This is the first international-tier clown convention to be held in Sabah,” said Dr. Andi. “The state government recognizes the immense potential of this program. If this inaugural edition is a success, we are fully prepared to consider slotting BICC into Sabah’s official tourism calendar starting next year.
Dr. Andi also extended a warm invitation to all enthusiasts of this creative art to participate in the convention, urging them to take this opportunity to visit Tawau and explore the unique attractions, culture, and experiences the district has to offer.
He emphasized that the convention serves as an excellent platform to reintroduce the professional and deeply creative side of the performing arts to the wider community, challenging the common perception that clowning is merely light entertainment for children.
Through BICC 2026, attendees will gain exclusive access to masterclasses and workshops led by elite international trainers. Sessions will cover professional clown makeup techniques, the complex art of balloon sculpting, magic tricks, and stage performance skills. To foster local talent, school students from the Tawau and Kalabakan districts will also be actively involved to expose them to the viability of the creative industry.
The driving force behind bringing the convention to Sabah is Tawau native Mr. Donny Ngu Ngok Yong, Director of C Design Production Sdn. Bhd. and the South East Asia Regional Director of the World Clown Association. Donny shared that the idea sparked after he attended the annual world clown convention in Texas, USA, last year.
“While many in the international community know of Borneo, few are aware of Tawau’s exact location,” Donny explained. “Through BICC 2026, we aim to not only elevate the art of clowning but to firmly put Tawau on the world map as a premier destination for international events.”
To maximize visibility and promotion, Hady Syam Nureddin, Chief Executive Officer of Sri Pelancongan Sabah, noted that aggressive promotional campaigns are already underway via the Hello Sabah tourism portal and various digital platforms. Strategic outreach is also being extended to neighboring Indonesian border regions, including Nunukan and Tarakan, a move expected to generate significant economic spillover for local hotels, restaurants, transport operators, and marketplace traders across Tawau.
Early Bird Registration
The organizers warmly invite performers, creative communities, schools, organisations, and relevant agencies to secure their spots for this historic event. Early Bird registration is available until 30 June 2026 at the following rates (inclusive of lunch and tea breaks):
Malaysian Participants: RM480
International Participants: USD130
For registration, collaboration inquiries, or further information, please visit the official website at www.bicc.my or contact Mr. Donny directly at 011-1058 9679.
