Liew displaying her name written in Korean at the Festival Exhibition. Looking on are Yoon (second right), Sabin (second left) and Lai (left).
KOTA KINABALU: The Korean Culture Festival 2024 heralds the beginning of a broader introduction of Korean culture to Sabah, says Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew.
Speaking at the launch of the festival at Plaza Shell here yesterday, she said this event marked a stepping stone for future initiatives that will definitely bring two nations closer together.
“In addition, it contributes meaningfully to the cultural diversity of Sabah, a state that has long been a shining example of peaceful and harmonious coexistence among different cultures.
“More significantly, the Korean Culture Festival serves as a catalyst for strengthening the cooperative relationship between Korea and Sabah across various sectors, including the economy, social development, and culture,” she said.
From Liew’s observation, although the Korean community in Sabah is relatively small, numbering around 1,000 members, it will continue to grow into a capable community that actively participates in the development of the local society and exerts a positive influence.
Noting that the vibrant occasion was made possible by the historic establishment of the Republic of Korea Consulate in Kota Kinabalu, the Minister said it was an opportunity to explore, connect, and learn from one another.
She said the establishment of the Korean Consulate last year has paved the way for deeper ties and greater cooperation between Korea and Sabah. “Its presence provides a great opportunity for the local community to engage directly with the Korean community and to learn more about the culture of Korea. From music and dance to food and games, we can witness the global impact of Korean culture, and experience it firsthand here,” she added.
The Republic of Korea Consul General in Kota Kinabalu, Yoon Ockchae, who also spoke at the gathering, thanked the Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry (KePKAS) and other sponsors for their support.
Among the guests were Kota Kinabalu Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Sabin Samitah, KePKAS Permanent Secretary Datuk Josie Lai, the People’s Republic of China Consul General in Kota Kinabalu, Dr Huang Shifang, Indonesia Consulate General of Indonesia in Kota Kinabalu Consul, Bapa Lingga Setiawan, Japan Head of Consular Office in Kota Kinabalu, Yamashita Yoshito, and Korean Association Sabah Malaysia President Lee Byeong Sam.
Also present were the Sabah Cultural Board Chairman Dikin Musah, Sabah Parks Director Dr Maklarin Lakim, Sabah Tourism Board CEO Julinus Jeffery Jimit, Sabah Convention Bureau CEO Noredah Othman, Sri Pelancongan Sabah CEO Thonny Chee, and Sabapak Eco Sdn Bhd CEO Remysta Taylor.
