MATUNGGONG: Cultural tourism can generate income for rural communities, particularly by showcasing Sabah’s diverse ethnic arts and traditions, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said.
He said the State Government was 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.
His speech at the opening of the 2026 Sabah State-Level Gong Festival at Matunggong New Township Open Hall on Saturday was read by the Minister of Women, Health and People’s Wellbeing and Matunggong Assemblywoman Datuk Julita Majungki.
Hajiji said Sumangkap Village in Matunggong was renowned for traditional gongmaking and urged local artisans to preserve their heritage while developing modern designs that could appeal to contemporary consumers and international markets.
He said the festival was more than a cultural event, serving as a platform to celebrate Sabah’s heritage, showcase the traditions of its communities and foster unity among people of different ethnicities and religions, while stressing the importance of involving young people in passing down gongmaking skills.
