Kota Kinabalu: Participants of the Unduk Ngadau pageant, who were required to produce short films under the Culture, Adventure and Nature (C.A.N) theme, have the potential to become ambassadors for Sabah's tourism. Assistant Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Datuk Joniston Bangkuai emphasized that these contestants could evolve into influential content creators capable of reaching both local and international audiences.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Joniston highlighted the ability of the contestants to tell stories that spotlight agro-tourism, local heritage, and rural life, thus connecting with both local and foreign audiences. His remarks came during the launch of the C.A.N Short Film Awards ceremony, held in conjunction with the state-level Unduk Ngadau competition.

Each participant was tasked with producing a short film based on the theme 'Kaamatan Untuk Semua', with a particular focus on redefining water and energy in the context of community and agriculture. Joniston noted that this short film initiative adds significant value to the beauty pageant by encouraging participants to delve into real community issues through creative storytelling.

He further added that the contestants are well-suited to promote the concept of Culture, Adventure and Nature, as they embody the diversity of Sabah's people and landscapes. "Efforts like the C.A.N. competition are important in encouraging young people to take part in promoting Sabah's identity and tourism through their own lens," he said.