KOTA KINABALU: The finale to the Unduk Ngadau cultural pageant will take place on May 30 and 31, with 53 contestants vying for the coveted Harvest Queen crown.
The pageant honours Huminodun, the legendary daughter of Kinoingan and Sumundu, whose self-sacrifice during a great famine is central to the Kaamatan harvest festival celebrated by native Sabahans.
With district-level winners now confirmed, the finalists are polishing their native language skills, strengthening their knowledge of culture and traditions, perfecting their attire and makeup, and rehearsing their stage presence. Many are also documenting their final preparations on social media, where supporters can follow their journey.
Contestants say the pageant is a platform to champion culture, language and community aspirations.
Penampang representative and stewardess Gadrette Gregory hopes to use Unduk Ngadau to nurture love for Sabah’s native tongues and uplift the status of indigenous communities.
Putatan’s contestant, student Amber Weysha Walter John, dreams of representing Malaysia in the 10m and 50m air rifle events at the Malaysia Games (Sukma). She also calls for more jobs, better infrastructure and improved education facilities in Putatan.
Tamparuli’s Unduk Ngadau 2026, Evyanarey Larry, says the pageant has deepened her understanding of her culture, instilled discipline and motivated her to grow. She aims to share this knowledge with others.
Kunak representative Rachel Justin hopes to inspire the younger generation to appreciate and preserve the Kadazandusun Murut culture while proudly carrying Kunak’s name on the national stage.
For Kota Belud’s Althea Tan Pin Yan, speaking the Dusun language daily with her mother became her greatest asset in the competition, helping secure her district-level win. She stresses the importance of keeping the native language alive.
Papar’s hopeful, Gelvia Vanessa Jenny, vows to continue speaking Kadazan with family and friends and to spark greater interest among youths in using their mother tongue.
Unduk Ngadau contestants traditionally embody Huminodun, believed to be the most beautiful and kindest maiden ever to live, whose sacrifice ensured her people would not go hungry. Kaamatan, in turn, is when Sabahans, especially farmers, give thanks for a bountiful harvest — a celebration rooted in ancient animist beliefs.
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