By: Nurul Fazliana Norman
KOTA KINABALU: Sept 11, 2026 – The diversity of culture, ethnicity and heritage in Sabah must continue to be appreciated and preserved as a strength in fostering the Malaysia Day spirit, especially among the younger generation.
Deputy Permanent Secretary II of the Sabah Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment (KePKAS), Datin Dr Cleopatra @ Clare Asing, said the Malaysia Day celebration on Sept 16 is not merely about celebrating the formation of Malaysia but also reminds Sabahans of the state’s identity and history.
She said Sabah’s cultural diversity, encompassing various ethnic groups, languages, food, traditional attire and performing arts, is an asset that must be protected.
“We do not need to become one to be united. Instead, we can be different but still respect one another,” she said when met during the Santai Ja Ba interview programme yesterday.
She said efforts to document, preserve and promote cultural heritage must be strengthened so that the younger generation does not lose its understanding of the values and meaning behind a tradition.
She added that social media can also be used by young people to introduce Sabah culture through creative content on traditional food, attire, dance, music and community stories.
At the same time, she said cultural heritage has the potential to become part of Sabah’s tourism experience while opening up economic opportunities for local communities through food products, handicraft, traditional attire and homestays.
“Tourists today no longer merely want to see beautiful places; they want to gain experiences, and get to know the community, food, culture and way of life of a place,” she added.
Cleopatra said the development of the tourism sector must ensure that local communities also benefit without compromising the state’s identity and cultural authenticity.
Meanwhile, she announced that the 2026 Sabah State-Level Malaysia Day Celebration will be held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) on Sept 16, starting at 8pm.
She also reminded the younger generation not to be ashamed of their own identity, but instead to continue improving their knowledge and skills and to use technology positively to take Sabah to a higher level.
“Love our state, increase your knowledge and do not give up easily, because the younger generation are the successors and the hope for Sabah’s future,” she said.
