Ethnic Cultural Heritage of Diverse Communities Continues to Be Preserved

15 June 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Comprehensive efforts through various initiatives continue to be undertaken to preserve and empower the cultural heritage of the state’s multi-ethnic population.

Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor, said that it is vital to ensure that the cultural treasures remain alive, appreciated, and passed down to future generations.

“In a constantly changing world, it is important for us to ensure that our local culture remains relevant and understood by both the current and future generations. The younger generation are not only the inheritors but also the custodians of this heritage, who will shape the future of our state."

“The preservation of cultural heritage is crucial to ensure the continuity of a community’s identity, values, and traditions. Therefore, I hope the various ethnic associations in the state will continue to develop their respective cultures, customs, and languages so they are not lost over time."

“At the same time, these ethnic cultures will also help attract more tourists to the state. This will certainly support the government’s efforts to achieve its target of 3.5 million tourists visiting Sabah this year,” he said.

He made these remarks at the Sabah Ethnic Day celebration, held in conjunction with the 74th Official Birthday of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sabah, at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) on Sunday.

His speech was delivered by Deputy Chief Minister II and State Minister of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam.

The event was officiated by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sabah, Tun Musa Aman, who was accompanied by his wife, Toh Puan Faridah Tussin.

Hajiji said that Sabah Ethnic Day is not only a platform to showcase the rich ethnic heritage of the state, but also an important avenue to strengthen unity, mutual understanding, and tolerance among communities, while fostering pride in their own heritage.

“The spirit of goodwill in diversity is the main pillar of strength for the people of this state. Therefore, I urge all Sabahans to continue nurturing the values of tolerance, mutual respect, and harmonious coexistence, regardless of ethnic or religious backgrounds."

“This is the true spirit of Sabah Ethnic Day. May this celebration serve as a symbol of unity in diversity and further strengthen the sense of togetherness in our beloved land of Sabah,” he stressed.