Kota Kinabalu: The Government has allocated RM14 million for cultural development in Sabah, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He said of the amount, RM4.5 million was allocated by the Federal Government through the 12th Malaysia Plan, while the remaining RM9.5 million was given by the State Government to the Sabah Cultural Board (SCB).
He said the State Government has set seven priorities for developing the cultural field in Sabah from 2021 to 2030.
“These are the digitisation of cultural arts (eCulture), integrated cultural tourism, cultural conservation, strengthening ethnic relations, cultural research and documentation, and development of cultural arts and intellectual property protection,” he said at the opening of the 38th National Chinese Cultural Festival at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), here.
SPONSORED CONTENT Daily Express members: Enjoy 1 for 1 signature cocktails and more at Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu Kota Kinabalu: DAILY EXPRESS is partnering with Hyatt Centric Kota Kinabalu to offer an exclusive deal for our members. Read more “The seven priorities align with the Sabah Maju Jaya initiative in developing multi-ethnic cultures in the State, and the role is assigned to SCB.
“Through these seven priorities, we want all cultural bodies and communities to develop together, appreciate and embody the cultural values that have been inherited and pass them on to future generations.”
Hajiji’s speech was delivered by Deputy Chief Minister II cum Local Government and Housing Minister Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam.
He said the Sabah Federation of Chinese Associations (FCAS) had organised the event 12 years ago, and this year, Sabah is once again hosting the programme.
He said the State Government supports the organisation of ethnic cultural activities in the State, including the efforts of FCAS to organise the National Chinese Cultural Festival.
He said various activities were held throughout the three-day festival, including cultural performances, food festivals, cultural and handicraft exhibitions, cultural villages, lanterns and decorated float parade.
He said the torch parade was also held at 12 stations across the State, reaching Mataking Island and Mount Kinabalu, which are tourist attractions that will help promote the State’s tourism industry.
Hajiji hoped the festival will successfully generate awareness among the younger generation about Chinese heritage and culture, and also help to strengthen relations among people of various races in this country.
“I also hope this festival can promote the diversity of Chinese culture not only to local people but also to foreign tourists,” he said.
* Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss.
* Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
