TAWAU: The State Government has allocated RM13.66 million this year to safeguard Sabah’s cultural and artistic heritage while boosting its tourism industry, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
Speaking at the launch of the 10th Tawau International Cultural Festival (FKAT) at the Tawau Municipal Council Square on Saturday, Hajiji pointed out the government’s commitment to enhancing cultural preservation efforts to strengthen the tourism sector.
The festival, which featured the theme Cultural Diversity: Heroes, Handicrafts and Weddings, was officially opened by Head of State Tun Musa Aman, accompanied by his wife Toh Puan Faridah Tussin.
The ceremony recalled memories of the 2014 edition when Musa served as Chief Minister.
Hajiji is confident that the festival would impact local tourism and economic growth, noting that both domestic and international visitors contribute to the livelihoods of entrepreneurs, homestay operators, artists and small traders.
“This influx of tourists not only helps visitors discover our cultural treasures but also provides economic benefits to all those indirectly involved, contributing to local community economic growth,” said Hajiji who was represented by State Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif.
Hajiji noted the festival’s role in educating younger generations about preserving ancestral cultural heritage.
He also expressed optimism about the upcoming Tawau International Cultural Centre (TICC), scheduled for completion in December 2027, which will serve as a cultural hub showcasing diverse ethnic arts and heritage.
This year’s festival featured participants from Kazakhstan, Indonesia and the Philippines, reinforcing Tawau’s position as a border city rich in cultural diplomacy and regional cooperation while promoting racial unity and cultural appreciation.
