Kota Kinabalu: The State Government has allocated RM13.66 million this year for the preservation of Sabah’s cultural heritage and arts, said Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Hajiji Haji Noor.
This is to ensure that heritage such as the traditional attire of Sabah’s ethnic groups is not only inherited by the current generation but also protected for future generations.
“I hope that interest in our cultural heritage can be maintained and passed down from one generation to the next.
window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []};googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.defineSlot('/22826383987/dailyexpress_inline', [1, 1], 'gpt-passback').addService(googletag.pubads());googletag.enableServices();googletag.display('gpt-passback');});“Participants of the Unduk Ngadau competition should seize the opportunity to become ambassadors for the preservation of culture, language and traditions of the Kadazandusun ethnic group,” he said.
Speaking at the Tuaran district-level Sodop Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan held at Nexus Resort and Spa Karambunai on Saturday night, Hajiji said the event is not just a traditional fashion competition.
“It is an important platform to highlight our efforts in preserving, uplifting, and dignifying the cultural heritage of the Kadazandusun Murut and Rungus (KDMR) communities, particularly in showcasing aspects of the traditional attire that are rich in aesthetic value, symbolism and history.
“Events such as this can also provide opportunity for the local ethnic fashion designers to generate income through their creativity and creations,” he said.
Hajiji said traditional attire is not just clothing, but symbolises identity, social status, values and traditions of a particular community.
For example, he said Tuaran district is known for its Linangkit embroidery, where each stitch, motif and color carries its own meaning and story.
“We must appreciate and promote this art to the younger generation and society,” he said.
“This competition also supports the State Government’s efforts to strengthen cultural tourism through the promotion of local heritage.
“The uniqueness of the Kadazandusun ethnic attire can attract attention both at the state level and international level,” he said.
The Chief Minister said the theme for this year’s Kaamatan Festival, “Kaamatan For All”, carries a significant meaning – that the spirit of Kaamatan is not just for one ethnic group but belongs to all the people of Sabah.
