Tamu Besar attracts tourists, promotes local culture – Hajiji

KOTA BELUD (Nov 2): The Tamu Besar Kota Belud not only attracts tourists but also highlights the beauty and uniqueness of the diverse local cultures in this state, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor.

He said the state government would continue to support and develop the potential of each district in Sabah, including advancing the socioeconomic, tourism and cultural aspects of its unique communities.

“The annual organization of this tamu besar plays a major role in attracting tourists, as well as promoting the beauty of local culture. It also symbolizes unity, as it serves as a social gathering space for people of various ethnicities and religions, such as the Bajau, Kadazandusun, Iranun, and Chinese communities, who have preserved this tradition to this day.

“I hope the people will continue to support every development agenda implemented by the government,” he said at the Kota Belud Tamu Besar 2024 today.

Head of State Tun Juhar Mahiruddin officiated the opening ceremony of the Kota Belud Tamu Besar 2024 which has various activities such as cultural performances, traditional sports, exhibitions, and sales of crafts, community, and traditional products.

Hajiji pointed out that the state government remains committed to enhancing the implementation of various inclusive tourism initiatives and programs, especially in expanding tourism promotion networks and developing air route connections to the state.

He added that this move aims to increase Sabah’s accessibility as a destination that offers the most appealing tourism experiences for both domestic and international travellers.

“According to statistics from the Sabah Tourism Board, the number of tourist arrivals in the state from January to August is approximately 2.1 million, with 867,231 international tourists and 1.2 million domestic tourists.

“This demonstrates Sabah’s great potential as a tourism destination, and I am confident that with the strategic plans in place, the number of tourist arrivals to Sabah will continue to show encouraging growth.

“Kota Belud is among the destinations offering a variety of tourism experiences, including adventure, recreation, culture and nature, with more than 30 fascinating tourist spots to explore, including islands and rivers,” he said.

He also pointed out that the Kota Belud tamu is one of the oldest markets in Sabah, with a history spanning over 100 years.

“The Kota Belud tamu is not only a trade center but also a place for the production and sale of various local products, such as agricultural produce, traditional foods, handicrafts, machetes, musical instruments and traditional attire. Here, visitors can find quality goods at reasonable prices,” he said.

The three-day Tamu Besar Kota Belud, set to wrap up on Sunday, has a rich 100-year history. Originally a marketplace for locals, it now draws tourists eager to experience and purchase local specialties, including traditional foods, handicrafts and clothing, making it one of Sabah’s most popular cultural attractions.

Meanwhile, Deputy Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan who was also in attendance, highlighted the event’s potential to shine on the global tourism stage as a cultural gem of the Land Below the Wind.

“Tamu Besar Kota Belud has everything – a deep cultural heritage, unique handicrafts and vibrant local experiences. It has the potential to attract visitors from around the world,” he said.

Visitors to the Tamu Besar Kota Belud, can find distinct local handicrafts that stand apart from those found elsewhere in Sabah, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich culture and craftsmanship.

“For the first time, the festival is being promoted as a signature event, allowing the ministry to showcase it globally as a unique experience in Sabah’s cultural tourism landscape,” he added.