Young patriots: Children posing in front of a Jalur Gemilang made from recycled egg cartons at one of the Sim-Sim decorated bridges.
SANDAKAN: Just 3km from Sandakan town on the state’s east coast, Kampung Sim-Sim is one of Sabah’s most historic water villages.
Wooden stilt houses stand over the sea, connected by narrow bridges that serve as daily lifelines – and, every September, as colourful stages of patriotism.
This year marks the fifth edition of the Malaysia Day bridge decoration competition, an annual highlight for the community.
And for Bridge 8, retiree Omar Ganubin became the face of this spirit of togetherness.
The 59-year-old, who once worked in government service and now fishes for a living, sewed a giant Jalur Gemilang measuring 12 by 16 feet – a labour of love that took him about a week.
“For this flag, I sewed it myself. It took about a week, though not full days – just a few hours each time. It’s a big piece, but it’s worth it to see it displayed here,” he said with pride.
The massive flag now dominates the entrance to Bridge 8, visible to anyone driving into Sandakan town along the coastal road.
Overall, preparations for the decorations stretched over two weeks, with about six or seven families actively involved out of the 22 households. As warden, Omar helped coordinate.
“It’s all about our bond here. Every year we bring something different ... and that motivates the younger generation to show what they can do,” he added.
The competition, organised by Tanjong Papat assemblyman Datuk Frankie Poon Ming Fung, has become one of Sim-Sim’s most anticipated events, with more than 20 bridges participating in recent years.
Bridge C, Bridge 11 and Bridge 8 have traditionally been among the strongest contenders, impressing judges with elaborate designs made from recycled items such as plastic bottles and egg cartons turned into models of warships, buildings and arches.
Bridge 8 participant Khalijah Ramli, 50, said her team has produced many different designs over the years, even winning first, second and third place.
“For us, it’s not just about decorating the bridge. It’s about uniting the different communities here. Each person contributes their own creativity, and together we turn those ideas into something meaningful,” she said.
