KOTA KINABALU: The fourth edition of the Tanjung Aru Beach Festival is showcasing the strengths, talents and creativity of Sabahans.
State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew said it was a unique event which should be further promoted.
"Today, I am reminded of how powerful our community truly is. This festival, now in its fourth year, is a living testament to the talent, creativity, and resilience of our people.
"We're here not just to celebrate the event but to honour how truly special Sabah is to all of us. I am especially proud of our local artists, musicians, and performers who have come together to showcase their incredible talents in today's live performances.
"Every performance, every piece of art, every entrepreneurial venture here today is the result of passion and hard work," said Liew during the launch of the two-day event at Prince Phillip Park here last night.
Her speech was read by her assistant minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
Meanwhile, Joniston, who is also Sabah Tourism Board chairman, hoped the festival would gain an international reputation.
He added that the number of people attending the beach festival last night increased.
"There are also tourists among the crowd, which is what we aim for.
"The festival is not only to introduce Tanjung Aru Beach as a place for leisure and tourism but also to attract more international visitors to the beauty of Kota Kinabalu.
"Just like the Rainforest Music Festival in Sarawak, which started small and is now an internationally anticipated event, we hope the Tanjung Aru Beach Festival will one day become a similar attraction."