Sabah committed to preserving cultural, multi-ethnic heritage, says CM

 Hajiji Noor says it is vital to ensure that local culture remains relevant and is understood by both present and future generations.

Chief minister Hajiji Noor urged ethnic associations in Sabah to continue to promote their cultures, customs and languages so they are not lost over time. (Facebook pic)

KOTA KINABALU:

 The Sabah government remains committed to implementing comprehensive initiatives aimed at preserving and strengthening the cultural heritage of the multiracial communities, said chief minister Hajiji Noor.

He said the ongoing efforts were crucial to ensuring that the state’s cultural treasures continue to be preserved, appreciated and passed down to future generations amid rapid global changes.

“In an ever-changing world, it is vital to ensure that local culture remains relevant and is understood by both present and future generations,” he said in a statement in conjunction with the Sabah Ethnic Day celebration here tonight.

“The younger generation are not just inheritors but also guardians of the heritage that will shape the future of this state.

“The preservation of cultural heritage is essential to ensure the continuity of a community’s identity, values and traditions. I therefore hope that ethnic associations in the state will continue to promote their cultures, customs and languages so they are not lost over time.”

The event was officiated by Sabah governor Musa Aman, who was accompanied by his wife, Faridah Tussin. Also present was deputy chief minister II Joachim Gunsalam.

Hajiji said efforts to preserve cultural heritage would also help attract more tourists to Sabah, in line with the state government’s target of 3.5 million tourist arrivals this year.

“The spirit of goodwill in diversity is the foundation of the people’s strength in this state. Therefore, I urge all Sabahans to continue nurturing the values of tolerance, mutual respect and harmony regardless of ethnic or religious background,” he said. - FMT