Kota kinabalu: The Sabah government is embarking on a five-year initiative, extending until 2030, aimed at documenting the state's multi-ethnic culture to serve as a reference for future generations and as a valuable tourism asset. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor emphasized the significance of this documentation effort, highlighting its role in preserving ethnic heritage and traditions while bolstering the Kaamatan Festival as a premier tourism product that can elevate Sabah's global profile.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Kaamatan Festival is more than just a cultural celebration. It serves as a crucial platform to preserve ethnic traditions, promote tolerance, and reinforce political stability and state development. The festival's unique appeal lies in the convergence of visitors from various regions, showcasing an array of sights, sounds, flavors, and warm hospitality, a source of pride for the people of Sabah, which is home to over 30 ethnic groups.
Hajiji conveyed these remarks during his speech at the closing ceremony of the 2026 Sabah State-Level Kaamatan Festival, officiated by Sabah Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman at Hongkod Koisaan, Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA). The event was graced by the presence of Toh Puan Faridah Tussin, the Yang Dipertua Negeri's wife; Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, who also chairs the State-Level Kaamatan Festival Main Organising Committee 2026; and KDCA president Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan.
In addressing the state's development agenda, Hajiji reiterated the government's commitment to sustainable development and the well-being of the people through the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) 2.0 roadmap. Key priorities under this roadmap include job creation, boosting agricultural productivity, empowering human capital, and ensuring the welfare of both urban and rural communities.
Hajiji urged the people to remain united in tackling challenges such as economic uncertainty and rising living costs. He underscored that Sabah's ethnic diversity and cultural differences should serve as a foundation for unity and state development. A promising future for Sabah, he asserted, requires not political rhetoric but rather hard work, dedication, harmonious efforts, and sincere cooperation from all societal levels.