By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Fest returned this year with the theme “Unity in Diversity, Culture Unites Us,” showcasing the state’s rich cultural heritage through a month-long celebration that culminated in the Sabah Fest Extravaganza at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC).
Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew said the theme was timely as it reflected how culture serves as the bond that unites communities.
“Sabah Fest is more than just an event. It is a stage where the rich and mesmerising cultures of Sabah shine,” she said when officiating the event on Saturday.
She added that over the past four weeks, an array of ethnic dances had been staged across various venues including Gaya Street, Imago Shopping Mall, Kota Kinabalu International Airport, and Suria Sabah, before the finale at SICC.
Although this year’s festivities were centred in Kota Kinabalu, Liew said the spirit of Sabah Fest extended far beyond the capital through live broadcasts on TV Sabah, Sabah Tourism Board, and HelloSabah.
“Our goal is simple: to share Sabah’s culture with as wide an audience as possible,” she said.
Liew said Sabah Fest remains committed to presenting new and unique features every year to highlight the state’s diverse traditions.
“Promoting Sabah is not just the work of a few, it is something all of us can take part in. Preserving our treasured heritage is a collective responsibility,” she said.
“Together, let us continue to showcase the very best of Sabah to the world,” Liew said.
The evening featured cultural performances curated by the Sabah Cultural Board, bringing together traditional dances, rhythms and colourful costumes representing the state’s ethnic diversity.
