KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah Bumiputera Ethnic Association (MAGEBS) was officially launched by Chief Minister of Sabah, Datuk Seri Hj Hajiji Hj Noor in a ceremony here on Sunday.
Hajiji who was represented by Minister of Community Development and People’s Well-Being, Datuk James Ratib said, indeed the establishment of MAGEBS is timely especially in today’s era of globalization.
“On behalf of the state government, I congratulate the Organizing Committee and all those involved in the launch of MAGEBS tonight.
“There is no doubt that this night is a historic moment for the more than 30 ethnic groups that joined this coalition, thus becoming a symbol of their persistent efforts over the years to integrate and progress together,” he said.
Hajiji said the State Government continues to recognize registered ethnic associations in Sabah and supports efforts to implement the dignity of various races.
“In Sabah alone, we have 35 ethnicities and 217 sub-ethnicities including Kadazandusun, Bajausama, Rungus, Murut, Iranun, Orang Sungai, Kedayan, Lundayeh, Ubian and Tatana.
“We admit that the unification of culture, values and traditions under one umbrella is not an easy thing, in fact, it is sometimes covered with cries of grief that demand sacrifice and great spirit among the leaders and the people as a whole.
“However, MAGEBS is successful and it is proven by the official launching of the association tonight, after being registered in 2017,” he said.
He added that the establishment of MAGEBS is very strategic and important as a shield that can prevent various elements of division and violence in the local community.
“I hope that MAGEBS will be an umbrella to further strengthen unity and harmony among people of multiple races and religions in this state.
“Without a bastion of unity and understanding to live tolerantly among the population, it will cause our society to break and be easily manipulated by those who are irresponsible,” he said.
In addition, said Hajiji, MAGEBS also played a role in helping to promote ethnic culture and arts in the state because there are still many old cultural treasures that need to be unearthed, so that they do not fade away in time.
“With the arrival of tourists increasing and Sabah recording a total of 1,012,119 visitors for the year 2022, I see this as a good opportunity for all ethnic associations to introduce the uniqueness of their respective cultural treasures.
“Therefore, I hope that MAGEBS will play a bigger and more meaningful role in managing and helping the state government preserve the involvement of the Bumiputra ethnic group in the tourism industry.
Meanwhile, Hajiji also welcomed MAGEBS’ efforts to develop an Ethnic Culture and Arts Center in Sabah.
“I was informed, it will house ethnic buildings for conservation, development and tourism purposes.
“I am confident that this effort will be one of the drivers for the tourism industry in the state of Sabah by highlighting the detailed aspects of each ethnic group in the state,” he explained.
