Kota Kinabalu: The State Government allocated RM174.45 million to the State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment this year to strengthen the tourism industry and preserve Sabah’s cultural heritage.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said apart from boosting the state’s economy, the initiative also contributes to efforts in conserving cultural heritage values and environmental sustainability.
“The State government has also allocated RM38.70 million to upgrade existing facilities and infrastructure, including the implementation of several major projects this year.
“Among the projects involved are upgrading facilities at Petagas War Memorial Park, constructing the Ranau Ethnic Museum, upgrading the Penampang Cultural Centre, and enhancing tourism products at the Murut Cultural Centre in Tenom.
“The Government will also continue efforts to strengthen Sabah’s heritage and culture through the development of the Ethnic Cultural Mapping 2026-2030 to ensure ethnic diversity is systematically documented for the reference of present and future generations,” he said.
His speech text was read by Deputy Chief Minister I, who is also the Minister of Works and Utilities, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, during the Sabah Ethnic Day 6.0 celebration at the Sabah International Convention Centre.
The event was graced by TYT Tun Musa Aman and his wife Toh Puan Faridah Tussin.
Hajiji said continuous efforts are important to ensure local culture remains relevant in a rapidly changing world while being preserved by the younger generation.
He also hoped that ethnic associations in the state will continue to develop their respective cultures, customs and languages so they do not become extinct, while strengthening cultural products as tourist attractions.
“These efforts are believed to help increase tourist arrivals, thus achieving the target of four million tourists to Sabah this year.
“The organisation of Sabah Ethnic Day serves as a platform to celebrate cultural diversity and ethnic heritage, as well as a symbol of harmony and unity among the people of this state,” he said.
He also expressed appreciation to all parties, including ethnic-based cultural bodies and arts practitioners, for making the celebration a success.
State Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan said the event has the potential to become a major cultural tourism product, attracting more visitors and introducing Sabah’s diverse ethnic heritage to the global stage.
“This programme not only brings together 35 ethnic groups in Sabah, but also provides a platform for cultural bodies to promote their respective heritage as potential tourism attractions at the international level.
“The participation of 182 ethnic association leaders in this edition also reflects the strength of cultural diversity, which is a key asset for Sabah’s tourism industry,” he said.
He added that the programme also showcases Sabah as a model of unity through cultural diversity.
“It is seen as complementary to efforts in promoting Visit Malaysia Year and as early preparation towards Visit Sabah 2027,” he said.
