Malaysia’s cultural heritage continues to thrive as the country embraces modernisation.
Assistant Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Industries Minister Peto Galim, highlighted the significance of the ‘Pesta Seni Traditions In Tune 2024’ and the ‘Pertandingan Pakaian Kebudayaan dan Tradisi Kebangsaan 2024’ in showcasing Sabah’s diverse cultural heritage.
Speaking at the festival’s closing ceremony at the Sabah International Convention Centre, he emphasised that the event promotes international collaboration while engaging the younger generation to preserve and evolve cultural traditions.
Peto noted that the festival offers immersive experiences such as musical theatre, art exhibitions, traditional crafts workshops, and virtual reality art to ensure cultural heritage remains relevant for future generations.
He underscored that Sabah’s diversity is its strength and that cultural preservation is key to its global prominence.
Organising Chairman, Jawed Khan, expressed the festival’s aim to bridge tradition and modernity.
While plans to host 125 delegations from 11 countries were canceled due to financial constraints, Jawed remained optimistic about expanding international participation.
He hopes to welcome delegations from 18 to 22 countries next year and reach 60 countries within five years, positioning the festival as a global hub for cultural exchange.
Key highlights of this year’s festival included art exhibitions, VR art displays, musical theatre, and a national traditional costumes competition.
