Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan reading the Chief Minister’s speech at the Sabah Native Customs School Charity Dinner on Monday (Dec 9).
KOTA KINABALU: Efforts to manage and preserve Sabah’s cultural heritage will be stepped up next year with a RM13.66mil allocation from the state government, says Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
The Chief Minister said the funding is to safeguard the state’s cultural heritage and arts for current and future generations.
“This investment will enhance our cultural preservation efforts, ensuring Sabah remains rich in its culture and traditions,” he said at the Sabah Native Customs School Charity Dinner on Monday (Dec 9).
His speech was delivered by Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.
Hajiji said the state government would continue supporting the Native Customs School, prioritising educational needs, infrastructure and programmes.
He was confident that the introduction of 19 subjects covering customs, language and traditional arts will help the younger generation connect with their cultural roots.
“This is not just an educational process but an effort to instil values and identity, ensuring the continuity of our culture for generations to come,” he said.
Hajiji also highlighted the Sabah Native Customs School Living Lab, a collaborative initiative with Universiti Malaysia Sabah’s Institute of Borneo Indigenous Studies.
“It aims to preserve customs and language, empower communities, and achieve global recognition.
“The state government supports this strategic approach to strengthening our cultural heritage and language,” he said.
Hajiji added that content from the Living Lab will be incorporated into textbooks, providing a modern educational approach that links customs, language and arts.
“The publication of these textbooks for the 19 subjects is a significant step. These books will guide students and serve as key references for cultural research both nationally and internationally,” he said.
He called on the private sector, non-governmental organisations, and Sabahans to support the Native Customs School’s bid for recognition by Unesco under the Good Safeguarding Practices category.
“This recognition will not only elevate Sabah’s profile but also demonstrate our commitment to cultural preservation on a global scale,” he said.
