PENAMPANG: Atitih Yatih Robert of Tamparuli was crowned the 65th Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan at Hongkod Koisaan on Saturday (May 31), emerging top among 51 finalists from districts across Sabah and beyond.
Elka Alika Pijeh (Tambunan) was named first runner-up, followed by Celarin Jenny (Kiulu) as second runner-up. Rini Swanda Jukilin (Beluran), Steavaynie Ginadus (Beaufort), Jenylin Janis (Ranau), and Evanatie Sannie (Bandaraya Kota Kinabalu) completed the top seven.
Atitih walked away with RM15,000 cash, a tiara, UNK2025 sash, trophy, bouquet (sponsored by Sawit Kinabalu Group), an ATI education scholarship, an NBUC scholarship worth RM35,000 and RM2,500 cash, haircare and skincare products, PHI Dental’s ClearCorrect aligner treatment worth RM20,000, a one-year rice supply by Sazarice, a 3D2N stay at Taman Badukan Riverside Resort, and return flight tickets to South Korea sponsored by Trippo.
The 2025 pageant also introduced a major upgrade in its scoring process through e-Unduk, a digital system developed by Sabahan IT expert and PhD researcher Ts. Aedeshie Daisy Rayner.
"For over six decades, we relied on manual scoring using paper forms and pens. But with e-Unduk, we are embracing digital transformation in culture, while still upholding the values and traditions that define us,” said the organising committee in a statement.
They said the research-based system uses scientific algorithms to enhance the traditional scoring structure, boosting transparency and public confidence in the judging process.
"This reform also reflects what Unduk Ngadau truly stands for – not just beauty, but empowerment, innovation, and the preservation of our Kadazandusun Murut Rungus heritage in the digital age.”
