Rungus community has unique cultural heritage to be explored

News Date:  May 21, 2022

Media : New Straits Times

KOTA MARUDU: Matunggong should continue to promote the vibrant and unique cultural heritage of the Rungus community to attract tourists.

Sabah Assistant Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said the dynamism of its culture and natural beauty are the main selling point for the district.

“Sabah is blessed with a diverse cultural landscape, home to more than 40 distinct ethnic groups.

“Such a unique culture like the Rungus is an excellent complement to tourism operations.

“I encourage the Rungus community to continue preserving their culture and to learn more about the tourism industry.

“The rural community must seize every opportunity to equip themselves with skills to further promote their people and places,” he said.

Joniston, who is also the Sabah Tourism Board chairman said this at the launching of the Matunggong Tourism Association here yesterday.

Also present were state Community Development and People’s Wellbeing Assistant Minister and Matunggong assemblywoman Datuk Julita Mojungki; Matunggong Assistant District Officer Willey Lampaki; and Federation of Rural Tourism Associations Sabah (FeRTAS) and Matunggong Tourism Association president Marius Masain.

According to Joniston, the newly formed association is an excellent platform for bringing together all like-minded tourism operators in the district to share ideas.

He also encouraged Matunggong Tourism Association to collaborate with other tourism organisations, particularly those that are more established, in order to learn from their success and adopt their approach.

“Matunggong holds great potential for a unique rural tourism experience.

“We must continue to promote its existing attractions and also find new products,” he added.

Matunggong is famous for its gong-making at Kampung Sumangkap, honey bee products and longhouses at Bavanggazo, and bead making at Kampung Tinangol.

It also has some of the most beautiful sandy beaches for tourists to explore.