Local Knowledge of Sabah Communities: Issues and Challenges

Sabah is a state known for its natural beauty and the uniqueness of its population, which consists of various ethnicities that differ in terms of cultural practices, customs, beliefs and languages. Sabah is a state that is home to approximately 41 ethnic groups and ethnic subgroups that use approximately 50 languages and speak them in no less than 80 dialects. This ethnic diversity contributes to the diversity of local knowledge in culture and customs that are traditionally inherited in local communities in Sabah. Local knowledge is an important knowledge of indigenous communities in a country because in addition to reflecting cultural values, it is also passed down to the next generation. However, along with the progress of development, the era of modernization and globalization, local knowledge in the culture and customs of various ethnicities in Sabah is faced with various issues and challenges. Therefore, the discussion in this article will cover the background of local knowledge in the culture and customs of various ethnicities in Sabah. The discussion will also focus on issues and challenges to the sustainability of local knowledge of various ethnicities in Sabah. The study was carried out using a qualitative analysis approach, using archival research and library research to obtain sources of study information. The results of the study found that local knowledge faces major challenges to ensure its survival due to the perception that it is outdated and no longer relevant today. However, at the same time, it was found that a small number of local communities still practice and practice their respective ethnic local knowledge while ensuring that it continues to be preserved. The identification of issues and challenges faced will produce an analysis that can be used as a reference to improve policies, especially in matters that benefit the preservation and sustainability of local knowledge of various ethnicities so that it continues to be inherited and practiced by the younger generation in Sabah.