MATUNGGONG: Oct 25, 2026 – The Sabah Gong Festival 2026 at the Matunggong New Town Open Hall served as a platform to elevate the state’s traditional treasures, while introducing the unique culture of the local community and preserving the art of the gong.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor said the organisation of the festival was important to ensure the art of the gong continues to be preserved and not lost to time.
“The Gong Festival is not merely a cultural event, but a platform to introduce Sabah’s traditional heritage, the uniqueness of its people’s culture, and to foster unity.
“This platform enables the younger generation to know, learn and appreciate their cultural heritage. The art of music and gong-making reflects the creativity, skills and life values handed down from generation to generation,” he said.
The text of his speech was read by Minister of Women, Health and People’s Wellbeing and Matunggong State Assemblyman Datuk Julita Majungki on Saturday.
With the theme “Echoes of the Gong, Culture Ablaze”, Hajiji said the theme symbolised heritage, pride and community identity, while calling on all parties to sustain traditions, appreciate diversity and pass on the treasures to future generations.
He called on gong makers and those in the traditional musical instrument industry to continue innovating.
“Preserve the uniqueness of the heritage, explore modern innovations that meet current tastes and have the potential to penetrate international markets. Support from various parties is important to preserve the art of gong-making. Young people need to be involved so that this skill continues to be passed down,” he said.
Hajiji stressed that the State Government was committed to elevating culture as a driver of local tourism, in line with the Sabah Maju Jaya (SMJ) direction.
“Cultural tourism has the potential to generate the community’s economy, especially in rural areas. The diversity of Sabah’s ethnic arts and culture is a valuable asset that attracts local and international tourists.
“Preserve and promote this uniqueness creatively, including through digital technology, so that it is known globally,” he said.
Source: Jabatan Penerangan Malaysia
