State govt strives to help NGOs preserve cultural heritage — Lee
MIRI: The state government will continue to encourage efforts by non-governmental organisations ( NGOs) in preserving the rich cultural diversity in the state.
According to Assistant Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Lee Kim Shin, this is in line with the government’s vision of capitalising on the existing cultural heritage as one of the state’s many tourist attractions.
“There are many times, especially during festivals, when we see people wearing the costumes of other races.
“This is Sarawak maintaining respect and appreciation for the cultures and traditions of her different races. This enables us to enhance further the long- established harmony in Sarawak,” said Lee in officiating at the launch of the state- level ‘ Keling’ ( Warrior) -‘ Kumang’ ( Princess) pageant here on Saturday night, hosted by Raban Ngepan Iban (RNI).
Lee was accompanied by his special assistant Eric Chin, RNI president Steven Abas Patrick Agus and his deputy Charles Doll Stanley.
He commended the Iban association for organising the event and also other activities to encourage the younger generation of Ibans to preserve their age- old culture and heritage.
At the same time, he also assured RNI of his full support.
On the annual ‘Keling-Kumang’ pageant, Lee noted that this year marked its third edition and it received overwhelming response from many aspiring young men and women from across the state.
“I believe that this event is a good platform not only to preserve your tradition, but also to showcase it to tourists – both local and foreign,” said Lee, who is also Senadin assemblyman.
Later, he presented a cheque for RM15,000 to Steven for RNI to host the ‘ Keling- Kumang Sarawak 2018’ finale – set to be staged on Miri Civic Centre this April 14.
Ten ‘ Keling’ and 14 ‘ Kumang’ finalists, representing their respective divisions, are vying for the top prize of RM5,000 for each category.