Dragon, Unicorn, Lion Dance Festival To Showcase Performances From Various Ethnic Groups In Sabah

SANDAKAN,  Feb 6 2010 (SANDAKAN.COM) -- About 1,500 youths of the various ethnic groups are expected to showcase their talent and skill at the Dragon, Unicorn and Lion dance festival in Sabah to propagate the 1Malaysia concept.

Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman in applauding the initiative by the United Sabah Chinese Community Association said it was among the special and unique culture and tradition that must be preserved.

This uniqueness, he said, was an important element which brought Sabahans together as they respected, appreciated and were proud of each other's traditions and customs.

"I was informed that 39 groups, comprising 68 Lion, Unicorn and Dragon dance troupes will be performing, the biggest participation when compared with other years.

"To ensure that the culture and tradition is preserved, I have urged more youths to be involved in cultural programmes and nation building," he told reporters after opening the festival at Padang Merdeka near here on Saturday.

Apart from instilling cultural awareness, the Chief Minister said cultural programmes could also help promote discipline, artistic skills and teamwork among the young people as well as keeping them away from unhealthy activities and social ills.