KOTA KINABALU: Kaamatan is a platform to not only celebrate heritage but also to promote cultural preservation, unity and women empowerment, says Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.
The Sabah Deputy Chief Minister I, who is also this year’s State Kaamatan Festival organising chairman, said events surrounding this festival, including the Unduk Ngadau (Harvest Queen), help to introduce Sabah’s rich cultural heritage and boost local economy.
“The Unduk Ngadau pageant is not only a competition of beauties but acts as a form of cultural, nature and economic promotion for local communities,” he said.
Kitingan said this after officiating at the Sodop Unduk Ngadau (gala night) at the Hongkod Koisaan Hall at the Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA) in Penampang, Thursday (May 29).
He said the Unduk Ngadau participants are now considered as influencers in their own right, promoting local products, showcasing cultural identities and bringing social and economical impacts to the community.
"This year’s Kaamatan for All theme shows the state’s commitment in celebrating the festival in an inclusive, harmonious and diverse manner," he said.
“As the Kaamatan festival enters its 65th year, it becomes a symbol of unity and cultural treasure which has to be preserved and protected regardless of race, religion or creed,” said Kitingan.
He took the opportunity to thank everyone who have and continue to work hard to make this event a success, as well as to all for being part of this tradition-preservation initiative.
Also present were the wife of Sabah’s Head of State, Toh Puan Faridah Tussin, the Chief Minister’s wife Datin Juliah Salag, Huguan Siou (paramount leader of the Kadazandusun Murut natives) Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan, KDCA Women Council chairman Datuk Joanna Kitingan and the Unduk Ngadau 2025 co-chairman Mary Gambidau.
