MATUNGGONG: Cultural tourism has the potential to generate income for communities, particularly in rural areas, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor.
He said Sabah’s diverse ethnic arts and cultures are valuable assets that attract tourists from within and outside the country.
“The State Government is committed to promoting culture as a driver of the local tourism industry, in line with the economic agenda under the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) Development Plan,” he said at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Sabah State-Level Gong Festival at the Matunggong New Township Open Hall today.
His speech was read by Minister of Women, Health and People’s Wellbeing and Matunggong Assemblywoman Datuk Julita Majungki.
Hajiji said the Sumangkap Village in Matunggong is renowned for its traditional gong-making, and the skill and dedication of local artisans show that cultural heritage can continue to thrive when it is carefully preserved.
“Therefore, we must ensure that Sumangkap Village remains a centre for the gong-making industry. I urge gong makers and everyone involved in the traditional musical-instrument industry to keep innovating.
“Preserve the uniqueness of this heritage while exploring modern designs that meet contemporary tastes and have the potential to reach international markets,” he said.
He said the success of this effort requires support from all parties for local communities in preserving the art of gong-making. The involvement of young people is also essential so the skills can be learned and passed down.
He said the Gong Festival is more than a cultural event: it is a platform to celebrate Sabah’s traditional heritage, showcase the unique culture of its communities and foster unity among people of different ethnicities and religions.
“For generations, the sound of the gong has accompanied traditional ceremonies and harvest celebrations, while bringing together people from diverse backgrounds,” he said.
He said holding the festival is an important way to preserve and promote the art of gong-making so it does not fade with time, while enabling younger generations to discover, learn about and appreciate their cultural heritage.
He said the effort aligns with this year’s festival theme, “Echoes of the Gong, the Spirit of Culture,” which represents the community’s heritage, pride and identity, and calls on people to preserve traditions, value diversity and pass this heritage on to future generations.
Hajiji said the Gong Festival, like other ethnic celebrations, reminds people that unity in diversity is the foundation of Sabah’s strength. It also continues to celebrate culture, strengthen unity and showcase what makes Sabah unique.
“Let us work together to ensure that the sound of Matunggong’s gongs continues to ring out as a symbol of our heritage, pride and cultural continuity,” he said.-pr/BNN
