KOTA KINABALU: The third Sepilok Jazz Festival is expected to attract around 1,000 visitors on Sep 6 and 7 in Sandakan.
Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew said the event aims to support the conservation of sea turtles on Libaran Island off Sandakan. It is organised by Friends of Sea Turtles Education and Research (Foster).
She added that the non-governmental organisation has released about 45,000 baby turtles from the award-winning Walai Penyu Conservation Park.
The park, a Foster initiative, was established in November 2011 in collaboration with the Sabah Wildlife Department (SWD).
Liew has expressed her support for the festival. She encourages both the local Sandakan community and visitors to attend, highlighting the significant role the event plays in supporting Foster's conservation work.
"This year, the festival will be held at the more spacious Rainforest Discovery Centre, allowing for a larger crowd than last year," Liew stated.
"With extensive publicity efforts underway, I am confident we will see a successful turnout. My ministry is proud to stand behind the third edition of Sepilok Jazz, and I am honoured to accept the invitation to attend this important event."
Foster chairman Alexander Yee, along with music director Cheong Kok Ann, recently met with Liew to discuss the festival's goals and programme.
This year's edition proudly collaborates with the Sepilok Jazz Academy, a platform designed to nurture emerging musical talent.
The academy offers competitions and workshops, fostering a vibrant community of local and international musicians.