KENINGAU: Strategic cooperation between indigenous education institutions and local cultural associations is being strengthened.
The Sabah Indigenous School (Saans) meeting was held at the AMG Academy Training Centre, Keningau, recently, with the aim of providing a briefing and explanation on the goals and objectives of the establishment of Saans under the auspices of the Nabalu Sunduan Association to the leadership of cultural associations in this district.
It was chaired by Gr Rozie Gitang, Director of Saans Upper Interior Zone Block A and Principal of Saans, DSP GS Sundang, together with the presidents of four major cultural associations in Keningau, namely the Keningau Dusun Bundu Liwan Cultural Association, Sabah Gana Association, Sabah Nabai Association and Sabah Kujau Association.
Rozie said the meeting was an important platform to build smart collaboration between SAANS principals and teachers with cultural associations to jointly make various traditional education programs and cultural activities.
She said that Saans and cultural associations share similarities in terms of objectives and goals of struggle, especially in ensuring that customs and languages, which are pillars of Sabah’s ethnic identity, continue to be preserved and inherited by future generations.
“Without close and continuous collaboration, it is difficult for both entities to move further, let alone achieve their respective visions and missions that have been set,” she said.
All parties were also called upon to join hands to make the 4th Saans Education Carnival a success, which is scheduled to take place on April 10, 2026 at the Basic Teacher Training Center (PLAG), Lomawang, Tuaran.
She also expressed confidence that the commitment shown in the meeting is an early sign towards stronger collaboration, including realizing the construction of their respective Ethnic Cultural Houses through mutual contributions of energy, funds and smart ideas according to collective expertise and capabilities.
