KUALA LUMPUR: Despite standing out in their resplendent traditional costumes, the men and women from Sabah and Sarawak made it clear that they are just as Malaysian as anyone else.
These participants at the Anak-anak Malaysia Walk 2016 proudly represented the Kayan, Bidayuh, Iban, Lunbawang, Kadazan and Kelabit communities.
Decked out in Rungus traditional attire, Mr Kaamatan Klang Valley 2016 Geo Allen George flew in from Sabah for the walk.
“I arrived here at midnight. I wanted to take part because this event brought so many people together,” said George, 29.
“We’re proud to be here to showcase our costumes. The message is that culture is colour and we should use it to paint our lives.
“But it is also a way for us to foster friendship and unity because through culture we learn about each other. And let’s be humble,” he added.
Founder of Dayak Aspiration Association Rita Elisha Mering, 39, said: “I really like this walk. Events such as this are important, especially now when we need to send out a message about moderation.”
“Furthermore, it is Merdeka month. It is a good time to reflect on unity and foster acceptance of each other. Let us look for similarities instead of differences,” said Rita, who is also a chief assistant director at the International Trade and Industry Ministry.
She got the classic Kayan beauty look down pat. The traditional costume, she said, symbolised peace and vibrancy.
Dayak Transformation Association president Joseph Janting, who wore a hat known as tanggi, said there was a need to learn about each other’s culture.
“All of us are Malaysians, yet I notice that many of us are not aware of each other’s culture.
“We can learn about each other and this is how we make Malaysia more harmonious,” said Joseph, 37.
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