Kinarut Cultural Complex Launched
The soon-to-be built Sabah Cultural Complex costing over RM100 million in Kinarut will become a new tourism attraction offering a unique experience. The complex consists of two main components — a Cultural Village and a Cultural Centre — and will complement existing ones, including the Hongkod Koisaan Cultural Centre of the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association, the Bajau Sama Sabah Cultural Centre and the Murut Cultural Centre in Tenom.
The complex will play a crucial role in efforts to preserve the State’s diverse cultural heritage. It has the potential to become a cultural tourism attraction, drawing both local and international tourists to witness and appreciate the unique heritage found in Sabah. The construction is a result of a smart partnership between the State Government and private sector, showing the Government’s commitment to establishing the first complex dedicated to showcasing the cultural heritage of various ethnic groups in the State.
This project marks the beginning of another significant landmark for Sabah, reflecting the aspiration to preserve, appreciate and elevate the State’s rich ethnic and traditional heritage. The State Government will ensure that this project is developed carefully, following established guidelines and regulations. The benefits of this successful project will not only be enjoyed by the current but future generations.
RM102.87 million has been allocated to the State Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment for 2025. The State’s tourism industry requires more new products to attract both domestic and international tourists, given Sabah’s diverse tourism resources. These resources can be expanded to include flora and fauna-based tourism as well as cultural and ethnic heritage tourism.
Players are urged to explore new ideas to create attractive tourism products, ensuring Sabah remains a top choice for both domestic and international travellers. The efforts to attract tourists to Sabah by enhancing tourism products align with the Malaysian Government’s commitment to the Visit Malaysia Year campaign, which aims to attract over 35 million tourists. Although Sabah targets 3.7 million tourists, in preparation for the campaign, the state must be ready to welcome even more visitors.
The importance of tourism industry players using new technologies to promote cultural-based tourism products has been highlighted. This approach would showcase Malaysia’s unique cultural heritage and attract more tourists. Community leaders, department heads, federal and state government agencies, relevant non-governmental organisations and all levels of society are called upon to continue strengthening and preserving the nation’s arts, culture and heritage.
The support of everyone is needed to realise the dream of making Sabah a state rich in heritage and culture. The groundbreaking ceremony for the project was attended by various officials, including Federal Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, State Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, and senior officials.