KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s unique cultural diversity is a treasure that must be preserved, says Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
The Chief Minister said the state government is committed to maintaining this cultural richness and turning it into a tourist attraction.
He said the Tawau International Cultural Festival was one of the avenues to promote the cultures and traditions of the many ethnic groups in the state.
Sabah was famous for its colourful culture as well as its natural beauty.
"This diverse culture, along with flora and fauna, is among the state’s most valuable assets," Hajiji said during the launch of the 9th Tawau International Cultural Festival in the east coast Tawau district on Saturday (June 29).
"These must be showcased through such festivals.
"Such efforts will surely stimulate the growth of the state’s tourism industry, including in Tawau," he added.
Through programmes like the Tawau International Cultural Festival, local entrepreneurs would also have the space and opportunity to market their handicrafts and traditional food.
Hajiji said the Tawau International Cultural Festival will have a permanent home ground when the Tawau International Cultural Centre is completed, adding that other world-class festivals could also be held there.
He was delighted to have participants from Indonesia and Thailand at the festival, noting that the Tawau International Cultural Festival will indirectly strengthen the relations between Malaysia and these countries.
The Chief Minister officiated at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Tawau International Cultural Centre at Sabindo earlier on Saturday.
Big plans are in place for the Tawau International Cultural Centre, he said, adding it is earmarked as a main centre for cultural development outside the Sabah capital Kota Kinabalu.
