NGOs preserving heritage assured of government support
Published on: Mon, Aug 11, 2025
By: R Gonzales Text Size: TYT Musa at the event. Tuaran: The Sabah Government will continue supporting non-governmental organisations that organise activities aimed at preserving the cultural heritage of the State's diverse ethnic groups, provided these do not overlap with similar government programs. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said cultural and arts programs like the Bajausamah Ethnic Cultural Festival can elevate the State's cultural treasures to higher levels while boosting Sabah's international image.
Advertisement He said this at the opening ceremony of the Bajausamah Ethnic Cultural Festival held at the Bajausamah Ethnic Cultural Centre in Lok Batik, here, Sunday (also see p5 reports). The event was graced by Head of State Tun Musa Aman and his wife Toh Puan Faridah Tussin. Hajiji said such programs also strengthen community bonds regardless of race and religion. Reflecting the festival's theme 'Traditional Culture as the Core of Malaysian Madani Unity,' Hajiji said the Bajausamah Association bears the responsibility of promoting unity as their core mission, as the true goal of honouring cultural heritage is creating harmony and maintaining solidarity.
Advertisement 'For generations and centuries, the people of this State have practised a culture of mutual respect, cooperation and assistance regardless of skin colour or religious beliefs,' he said. He said Sabah's spirit of unity and tolerance has created a unique and attractive community identity. With 35 ethnic groups and 217 sub-ethnic communities, Sabah represents true diversity within Malaysia's context, yet maintains harmony under the motto Unity in Diversity. Hajiji said unity brings strength and respect, while division leads to weakness and vulnerability. He expressed confidence that through festivals featuring traditional dance competitions like Limbai and Runsai, Bintang Soromas singing contests and Betitik competitions, new talents can be discovered while preserving cultural heritage. He also acknowledged Musa's support in establishing the Bajausamah Association 12 years ago and developing the cultural centre, which began construction in 2017 during Musa's tenure as Chief Minister. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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