TENOM: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor has called for future editions of the Kalimaran Festival to involve more local entrepreneurs and tourism industry players to bolster the rural economy.
His speech was delivered by Deputy Chief Minister III and Minister of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transport Datuk Ewon Benedick at the opening ceremony of Ilau Kalimaran at the Datuk Seri Panglima Antanom Hall here on Saturday.
Hajiji said organising the festival aligns with the State Government's initiative encouraging every district to develop unique tourism products ahead of Visit Sabah Year 2027.
He urged the younger generation, particularly youth from the Murut community, to preserve their ethnic heritage and utilise digital platforms to showcase their culture internationally.
The Chief Minister also noted that the State Government remains committed to developing Kemabong through agriculture, entrepreneurship, infrastructure, and tourism, while urging the public to use the festival to maintain unity and stability.
