Sabahans must proudly show off unique ethnic heritage – CM

TENOM: The people of Sabah who are from various ethnic groups must always be proud to show off the uniqueness and beauty of their culture not only for future generations but also for other races, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal.

He said each ethnic group in the state should not be shy of showing off their cultures, including their traditional clothes so as to preserve the heritage of their ancestors.

“The uniqueness of Sabah is not only its natural wealth, but also the culture of the different groups which must be preserved for the younger generations.

“I also hope to see more youths from each ethnic group be involved in cultural festivals so that they will know more of their cultural heritage and love it,” he said in his speech at the 16th Pesta Kalimaran held at the Murut Cultural Centre here yesterday.

Also present was Deputy Chief Ministers Datuk Jaujan Sambakong and Datuk Wilfred Madius Tangau as well as Sabah Infrastructure Development Minister Datuk Peter Anthony.

About 15,000 people of various ethnic groups turned up to celebrate the festival which also included a cultural parade of 10 sub-ethic Murut communities.

The festival is being held for six days beginning March 26.

Commenting further, Mohd Shafie said the diversity of customs and traditions in Sabah should also be a platform to people to get to know each other and strengthen unity and understanding.

He said this would make Sabah a peaceful and prosperous nation in the eyes of the world even though its people were of various ethnic groups and religions.

Mohd Shafie said the unique cultural diversity could also be a tourist attraction, thus increasing economic resources for the people.

Meanwhile, Peter who is chairman of the Pesta Kalimaran Central Committee told reporters that he wanted the festival to be included in Sabah’s tourism calendar from next year so as to attract more tourists.

“I believe the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment will make improvements, including more events in the festival (after it is included in the tourism calendar),” he said. - Bernama