TUARAN: The State Government will continue its initiatives to strengthen Sabah’s heritage and culture through the development of the Ethnic Cultural Mapping (2026- 2030) beginning this year, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor.
He said the five-year effort aims to ensure that Sabah’s ethnic and cultural diversity is systematically documented, not only as a reference for present and future generations but also for tourists.
He said this at the Sodop Unduk Ngadau event and the Randawi Tavantang Kaamatan (RTK) Grand Final at the Tuaran District level at Shangri-La Rasa Ria here tonight.
His speech was delivered by Tuaran Member of Parliament Datuk Seri Panglima Wilfred Madius Tangau.
Meanwhile, the Sodop Unduk Ngadau event, held in conjunction with the Kaamatan Festival, is not merely a showcase of traditional attire but also serves to introduce and elevate the beauty and uniqueness of the cultural heritage of the Kadazandusun, Murut and Rungus communities to the present generation, he said.
Hajiji also welcomed the organising committee’s initiative to introduce the RTK or Mister Kaamatan competition as a platform that provides space for the younger generation to showcase their personalities, talents, and leadership spirit.
“This competition is highly significant as it not only highlights the potential of youths in this district, but also serves as a platform to nurture a confident, capable generation that can become future leaders who will continue to contribute to the development of the community and the state of Sabah,” he said.
He said the Kaamatan Festival is a highly valuable cultural heritage for the people of Sabah, reflecting not only the history and traditions of the Kadazandusun, Murut and Rungus communities, but also serving as a symbol of gratitude, unity and harmony among the state’s multi-ethnic society.
“As such, the Kaamatan Festival should serve as a platform for all of us to unite in diversity in order to create a peaceful, harmonious and prosperous life,” he said.
This year’s Kaamatan Festival theme, “Kaamatan: Harvesting Unity, Celebrating Harmony,” carries a very profound meaning, he said.
“It illustrates how the harvest not only symbolises sustenance and gratitude, but also represents the unity of the community in celebrating the values of unity, mutual respect and harmony that form the strength of Sabah.
“This is the spirit that we must continue to preserve so that this cultural heritage not only remains alive, but continues to serve as a bridge that strengthens ties among all races and segments of society in the state,” he said.
Hajiji wants Kaamatan to continue serving as a platform to promote the richness of Sabah’s cultural heritage, tourism products and agricultural produce.
He also hopes that interest in Sabah’s cultural heritage will be sustained and passed down from one generation to the next, and not be lost over time.-pr/BNN
