PLANS are afoot to build a new Sabah Cultural Centre here to display the cultural heritage of the 35 major ethnic and 120 sub-ethnic groups in the State.
State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew said the proposed centre is in the pipeline and her Ministry is working towards having it materialised as soon as possible.
“It is not only for cultural preservation but also for the convenience of tourists who come to Sabah. Because the first thing tourists want to go to, which I think is very important, is the museum and secondly, a cultural centre.
“Museum displays the history of North Borneo and Sabah, while a cultural centre displays the 35 major ethnic and 120 sub-ethnic groups of Sabah…so we will display them as a showcase for our visitors,” said Liew, after she officiated the Kolej Teknologi Yayasan Sabah (KTYS) Kaamatan Festival 2023 held at its main campus in Sembulan, Kota Kinabalu, on June 7.
Asked when work is expected to start, Liew said the process has already started and currently there is a lot of administrative work to iron out.
“We need people to give the input, we need to have the engineering, architectural and government support, a lot of issues to be ironed out before we can start the works (building the centre).
“But I have to say the good thing is that the development plan is already there but waiting to be approved,” she said.
Earlier, in her speech, Liew said she is aware of the role that culture plays in promoting the State’s tourism industry and fostering social cohesion.
“Sabah’s cultural diversity is a source of great pride and strength. It is through events like the Kaamatan that we can share our traditions, deepen our understanding of one another and promote harmony and unity among our communities,” she said while appreciating the Yayasan Sabah Group for their unwavering support in nurturing educational institutions like KTYS.
“The dedication of the management, lecturers and staff in providing quality education to our students is commendable. By instilling knowledge, skills and deep respect for our cultural heritage, you are shaping the leaders of tomorrow.
“As we celebrate the Kaamatan Festival, let us remember the importance of preserving our cultural identity while embracing the diversity that surrounds us.
“Our traditions are the threads that weave us together as a community. By respecting and understanding one another’s customs and beliefs, we can foster a spirit of inclusivity and build a society that cherishes the values of unity and harmony,” said Liew.
The Kaamatan or Harvest Festival holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Sabah, she said, adding it is a time when everyone comes together to celebrate the bountiful harvest and to honour the rich cultural heritage that defines them as a community.
“This year, under the theme of ‘Kaamatan Enculturates Unity,’ we emphasise the importance of unity in preserving and promoting our diverse traditions,” she further
said, commending the organisers for their dedication and hard work in putting together this remarkable event.
She said the Sugandoi and Unduk Ngadau competitions showcase the immense talent and beauty of KTYS students.
“The performances are a testament to the passion and commitment you have invested in preserving our cultural heritage. I am proud of each one of you, and I am certain that your talents will continue to flourish and inspire future generations.”
Liew also presented the Ministry’s contribution of RM20,000 to KTYS, received by KTYS Chief Executive Officer Samin Ongki, for its Kaamatan Festival. Yayasan Sabah Corporate Secretary Hanafiah Diman and Donna Deidre, who is the Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan 2023 of Kota Kinabalu City, were present.
She said a new budget carrier MYAirlines is also offering job opportunities for KTYS students who are qualified. Samin thanked Liew for the contribution which would be used for organising next year’s Kaamatan Festival.
He also assured of KTYS collaboration with Liew in achieving her Ministry’s agenda, like with MYAirlines which is offering the college an opportunity to submit names of qualified students to apply to work as flight attendants.
Samin said the event was part of the college’s yearly event but was stopped temporarily during the Covid-19 pandemic period.
“I congratulate our Corporate Communication Manager Ellen Sikodol and its teams for successfully organising the event this year which is merrier and attended by a Minister. This is a success and we will continue it every year,” he said.
