SINGAPORE: Art exhibitions abroad featuring local artists can play a significant role in boosting Sabah's global reputation, said Sabah Tourism Board (STB) chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai.
During the launch of Sabahan Yee I-Lann's solo exhibition at the Singapore Art Museum, he said art is a compelling way to share the state's stories, culture, and heritage with the world.
He said such platforms contribute to the narrative of Sabah as a destination not only rich in natural beauty but also in artistic and cultural depth.
"Art is a universal language that can spark curiosity and interest. By showcasing Sabah-inspired works, we invite people to connect with our culture and, ultimately, to visit Sabah to experience its wonders for themselves," he said in a press release.
As such, Joniston hoped more local artists would create Sabah-inspired art for international showcases.
Malaysia's High Commissioner to Singapore Datuk Indera Azfar Mustafar; Singapore Art Museum chairman Edmund Cheng; Tourism Malaysia director Norliza Mohd Zain and Sabah Trade and Tourism Office Singapore managing director Wendy Clare Stephens were also present at the launch.
The exhibition, themed "Mansau-Ansau" - a Dusun phrase meaning "to walk without a predetermined destination" - runs until March 23, 2025, and is expected to draw over 45,000 visitors.
Spanning two decades of Yee I-Lann's career, the exhibition reflects an openness to discovery through a blend of photo collages, textiles, and natural materials, merging traditional techniques with modern ideas to explore power and identity.
The launch follows Yee's recent win at the ANTEPRIMA × CHAT Contemporary Textile Art Prize 2024, which recognised her innovative contributions to the textile art field.
The "Mansau-Ansau" exhibition also coincides with her participation in Art Basel Miami Beach 2024 from Dec 4 to 8 as part of Silverlens' duo presentation, further solidifying her position as a key figure in the global art scene.
Joniston said international art showcases like these are essential for positioning Sabah as more than just a travel destination.
He added that such efforts could spark new cultural tourism initiatives, such as art-based tours and collaborations with international artists, further enhancing Sabah's reputation as a vibrant hub of culture and creativity.