Spoilt for choice: Many come to buy handmade beads and Kaamatan-themed accessories at the Hongkod Koisaan.
KOTA KINABALU: All eyes will be on the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association’s (KDCA) Hongkod Koisaan in Penampang as the month-long Kaamatan or Harvest Festival will culminate in the grand finale, celebrated today and tomorrow.
Since May 1, Sabahans have been celebrating Kaamatan with singing, dancing, traditional games and enjoying delicious food. But it is at the Hongkod Koisaan, which loosely means unity hall, where the energy truly comes alive.
The celebration here is always the most colourful and exciting, bringing together people of all races and backgrounds to honour the harvest festival and Sabah’s rich traditions.
The Hongkod Koisaan, the heart of Sabah’s native heritage, is a central hub where traditions, history and the way of life of indigenous communities are preserved, promoted and proudly celebrated.
The Kaamatan celebration will be extra special as Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail are expected to attend the celebration today.
This will mark the Prime Minister’s third appearance at the Kaamatan finale.
Sabah’s Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman and his wife Toh Puan Faridah Tussin will grace the official closing ceremony tomorrow.
Visitors can enjoy cultural performances, traditional sports like blowpipe shooting and stilt walking, as well as visit stalls selling handicrafts, traditional food and attire.
They can also add handmade beads and Kaamatan-themed accessories to their collection.
One of the highlights of the celebration is the Unduk Ngadau, a special event that honours Huminodun, the legendary maiden who gave her life to save her people from famine.
The new Harvest Queen will be crowned tomorrow.
This year’s theme, “Kaamatan montok Toinsanan” (Kaamatan for All), is a reminder that true strength lies in the unity and support of the community as everyone strives forward together.
