KOTA BELUD: Tamu Besar Kota Belud not only draws tourists but also highlights the state's cultural diversity, said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
He added that Tamu Besar Kota Belud was one of the oldest tamu in Sabah, having been around for more than 100 years.
"Tamu Besar Kota Belud is not just a trade centre but also a place for producing and selling agricultural products, traditional foods, handicrafts, machetes and traditional musical instruments.
"Visitors can find a variety of valuable items at reasonable prices.
"Hosting Tamu Besar attracts tourists and promotes local culture.
"Tamu Besar also symbolises unity, serving as a social gathering for people of various ethnicities and religions, such as Bajau, Kadazandusun, Iranun and Chinese communities."
He said this at the Tamu Besar Kota Belud at Padang Pekan Kota Belud here.
Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sabah Tun Juhar Mahiruddin officiated the event.
This year's tamu will feature cultural performances, traditional sports, exhibitions and sale of crafts.
Hajiji reiterated the state government's commitment to boosting tourism initiatives and programmes.
The state recorded 2.1 million tourists from January to August, with 867,231 being international tourists and 1.2 million domestic tourists.