KOTA KINABALU: Sabahans are proud of its cultural diversity and the State Government will not tolerate insults to its cultural heritage, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman.
“I am compelled to publicly criticise the ignorant and irresponsible parties behind the blog post that has insulted the Sumazau dance, that is very much a part of Sabah’s rich cultural heritage, Musa said when commenting on the article “Tarian Sumazau Untuk Golongan Rendah Akhlak”.
The article which was published on Suara Pakatan Rakyat blog on Sept 11 has angered Sabahans and drawn condemnations from PBS and UPKO as well as other organisations for denigrating the traditional KadazanDusun dance.
“We are home to 32 different ethnic groups, each with its own unique identity. Though different from each other and with different backgrounds and religious beliefs, there has always been above it all, respect,” Musa said in a statement yesterday.
He pointed out that every culture has its own identity, steeped in tradition and history.
“The Sumazau is no different and its dance has its own distinctive meaning. At the same time, it is for all occasions and for everybody. Modern day Sabah is known around the world as a vibrant melting pot of cultures,” he said.
“Our people are peace loving and harmonious. Many families, my own included, have members that are of different races and religions. We are like one big family here in Sabah.
“As Chief Minister tasked with the responsibility of leading the state, my administration works hard to ensure this precious peace and racial harmony is protected and safeguarded. Such preservation is vital to developing the state of Sabah and steering our homeland into brighter future for our children.
“I join the outrage voiced by the people of Sabah against any slurs to our culture by irresponsible parties with selfish or malicious agendas.
“We will not tolerate such disrespect for our cultural values. Those who have no respect for our cultural values are not welcome here,” Musa stressed.