KB can help ensure Halatuju success: Pairin
Monday, 15 May 2006 (Source: Daily Express)

KOTA BELUD: The district has all the ingredients to ensure the State's halatuju to develop three economic sectors - agriculture, manufacturing and tourism - as the main engine of growth can be realised.

Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Joseph Pairin Kitingan said the district, which had been identified as the State's "rice bowl" coupled with its ethnic diversity, attractive natural environment, apart from the handicraft activities, has its own distinct characteristics.

"Therefore, the community must take advantage of these potential economic activities to uphold the Government's efforts in making agriculture, tourism and manufacturing as the State's main development core," he said.

Pairin, who is also Rural Development Minister, was speaking to launch the district-level Kaamatan Festival, here, Sunday.

Earlier, he launched the replica of the wakid (Kadazandusun traditional basket) at a roundabout as the district's new landmark.

The wakid symbolises the main income source of the KDM community in the district.

The replica, with Mt Kinabalu as background, was designed by Mara Activity Centre students costing RM5,000 that was sponsored by Shell Malaysia.

Among those at the launch were Kadamaian Assemblyman Herbert Timbon Lagadan, District Officer Edris Yahya and Shell Malaysia Managing Director George Ling.