KOTA KINABALU: Sabah’s diverse cultural heritage set the tone for the 21st Senior Officials Meeting on Culture and Arts and the 17th Somca Plus Three, which opened in the state on Wednesday.
The meeting built on earlier Asean-level discussions focused on strengthening cooperation in arts and cultural development.
Delegates from China, Japan and the Republic of Korea attended the sessions, reflecting growing regional partnerships in the cultural sector.
Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan said hosting the event in Sabah highlighted the State’s living traditions, from music and dance to weaving and craftsmanship, and offered communities a platform to showcase their heritage.
The programme also features the Borneo Arts and Crafts Bazaar, giving visitors a closer look at local crafts such as Linangkit , bamboo weaving and the Bajau parang, alongside representatives from Asean member states.
