Lok batik: Preserving the cultural heritage of Sabah’s multi-ethnic groups remains a priority for the state government, with a focus on promoting and elevating local cultural treasures, stated Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. He emphasized the importance of cultural preservation during the closing ceremony of the four-day Bajau Samah Cultural Festival, highlighting its role in enhancing Sabah’s image on the world stage.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chief Minister Hajiji noted that Sabah’s 35 ethnic groups and 217 sub-ethnic groups make it a truly multicultural society within Malaysia. He praised the harmony and unity among Sabah’s people, in line with the slogan “Unity in Diversity.” He underscored the significance of the annual Bajau Samah Cultural Festival in promoting the culture of the Bajau Samah community while acknowledging the contributions of other ethnic traditions to the state’s harmonious diversity.

The festival was officiated by Sabah Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman, accompanied by his wife, Toh Puan Faridah Tussin, and Sabah Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan. Chief Minister Hajiji reiterated the state government’s commitment to safeguarding Sabah’s rich ethnic and cultural diversity.

He further highlighted that the festival not only strengthens community ties across different races and religions but also serves as a platform to nurture and preserve new talents in arts and culture. He expressed gratitude to Tun Musa for his support in the establishment of the Bajau Samah Ethnic Association 12 years ago and the development of the Bajau Samah Cultural Centre in Lok Batik, which started in 2017 during Musa’s tenure as Chief Minister.