KOTA KINABALU: The increasing number of Chinese tourists choosing Sabah as their destination after the Covid-19 pandemic is an encouraging sign, said state Tourism, Culture and Environment minister Datuk Christina Liew.
She said that out of 1.6 million tourist arrivals as of June this year, over 17,000 are from China.
"This has injected vitality and hope into our tourism industry.
"It demonstrates that despite facing global challenges, Sabah continues to maintain a strong appeal, attracting visitors from around the world to experience our natural beauty and unique culture," she said at the closing ceremony of the '2023 Chinese Cultural Holiday Programme - Sabah, Malaysia' at Kian Kok Middle School here yesterday.
The event was organised by the Malaysia-China Friendship Association Sabah.
Liew's speech was read by her Political Secretary Vivien Lee.
Liew, who is also Api Api Assemblywoman, said the inaugural event has not only enriched Sabah's cultural heritage but has also strengthened friendship ties between Malaysia and China.
"Notably, this year marks the 49th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, as well as the 10th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership between our two countries and the Belt and Road Initiative.
"The timing of this event is closely intertwined with the history of our two nations," she said, adding that it presented them with a great opportunity to better understand one another and cherish their friendship.
As for the resounding success of the 'Chinese Cultural Holiday Programme', Liew said Sabah teachers and students alike have immersed themselves in traditional Chinese arts, music, and crafts, experiencing the profound and diverse world of Chinese culture.
Liew also thanked 15 teachers from Shanxi Province who taught traditional Chinese culture and arts, including traditional martial arts, folk dances, percussion music, Chinese classical music, paper cutting, dough sculpture, Chinese knotting, calligraphy, and Chinese painting to more than 400 primary and secondary school students from Sabah.
Liew also commended the Malaysia-China Friendship Association Sabah for their significant contribution in promoting business, cultural exchange, and tourism between Malaysia and China.
"This remarkable event has not only enriched the lives of our Chinese students but has also provided an opportunity for non-Chinese students to understand and appreciate traditional Chinese culture, promote the culture, and accelerate the exchange of Chinese culture with the world.
"Let us continue to work hand in hand to make greater contributions to the development of Malaysia-China friendship, and to build cultural bridges that connect our hearts."
Also present were the Consul General of China in Kota Kinabalu Dr Huang Shifang and Shanxi Overseas Friendship Association vice chairman Li Guizeng.
Source: https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2023/09/950807/more-chinese-tourists-are-visiting-sabah-says-minister