Turn Padau Race into tourism product: Musa

Beluran: A ‘Padau Race’ or boat race of the Tidong ethnic group can be turned into a new tourism product which can improve the socio-economy of its people and boost the development here.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman said such event has the potential to attract tourists who love the diversity of culture to come here and appreciate the ‘Padau Race’.

“The State Government always welcome and fully support any initiatives taken by various quarters to uphold the heritage of tribes and ethnic groups in Sabah.

“For instance, the Padau Race being held here is a good move and timely as it is a beneficial effort to maintain heritage of the Tidongs and educational to the younger generations,” he said.

Musa said this during the Padau Race (amapalud De Padau) at the river mouth of Labuk, Beluran here.

State Rural Development Minister Datuk Radin Malleh delivered Musa’s speech. Also present were Dewan Rakyat Deputy Speaker Datuk Ronald Kiandee, State Finance Assistant Minister Datuk Michael Asang and Libaran MP Datuk Juslie Ajirol.

Padau (boat) has been the transportation mode for Tidongs in those days and the ethnic group has added value by holding the ‘Padau Race’ (Ampalud De Padau).

Musa suggested that the Padau Race diversifies by creating several categories such as having race and decorated boats competitions.

Source: Daily Express