Bajau learning centre mooted for heritage
Published on: Wed, Jun 25, 2025
By: Kazalinah Kamaludin Text Size: Kota Kinabalu: State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew has proposed the establishment of a training centre to educate the public about the culture of the Bajau community in the state, including the history and celebration of the Regatta Lepa. She said education is a fundamental foundation for understanding culture, and such a centre could help ensure the continuity and preservation of Bajau cultural heritage. 'Through this training centre, not only members of the Bajau community but also the general public who are interested can learn more about Bajau culture, including skills such as building 'lepa' boats, performing the 'Igal-Igal' dance, preparing traditional dishes, and many other cultural elements that can be taught at the centre. 'Currently, this knowledge and these skills are passed down traditionally from parents to their children. 'However, we hope to establish a more systematic training centre, where the public, especially Bajau youths, can learn practical and applicable skills 'After completing their training at the centre, they too can go on to teach others,' she told reporters at a press conference held in conjunction with the 30th Regatta Lepa 2025 celebration at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) here on Monday.
Advertisement Liew said she would bring the proposal to the ministry level for discussion. 'I hope this proposal will be thoroughly considered at the ministry level, along with the District Officer and the Sabah Cultural Board. 'It is time such a centre is set up for the Bajau community. It doesn't necessarily have to be in a single location, it can be set up in several areas, even on a small scale,' she said. Also present were Semporna District Officer Alexander Liew, Senior Assistant Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Muhammad Sufi Kaim, who represented the Ministry's Permanent Secretary Datuk Josie Lai, Community Development Leader (PPM) for Sinallang Risdeh Sabardin, Sulabayan District Chief Abdul Majid Palah, and PPM for Sulabayan Datuk Hajan Gurimbang. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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