The Majestic Johor Festival x Gong Xi Fiesta officially kicked off on 31 January 2026, with Batu Pahat district opening the curtain for the Majestic Johor Festival 2026. The event was officiated by YB Tuan Haji Mohd Fared bin Haji Mohd Khalid, Chairman of the Johor State Committee for Islamic Religious Affairs. Also in attendance were Mohammad Nazrul bin Abd Rahim, Director of Tourism Johor, and Tuan Haji Nazid bin Jasiman, President of Majlis Perbandaran Batu Pahat.

The opening ceremony began with an energetic 24 Festive Drum performance alongside a Zapin performance, symbolising cultural harmony. A variety of programmes, sales booths, and government agency exhibitions were also held, adding vibrancy to the festival and drawing strong public participation throughout the event.