KUALA LUMPUR: Members of the Cabinet on Saturday (May 30) extended Kaamatan greetings to the Kadazan-Dusun, Murut and Rungus communities in Sabah.
In social media posts, they described Kaamatan as more than just a harvest festival, but a symbol of unity, cultural heritage and togetherness that underpins harmony within Malaysia’s multiracial society, particularly in Sabah.
Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said Kaamatan is a valuable cultural heritage of the people of Sabah and has long served as a source of strength for the community.
He said this year’s theme, ‘Menuai Perpaduan, Meraikan Keharmonian’ (Harvesting Unity, Celebrating Harmony), reflects the aspiration to continue preserving values of mutual respect, appreciation of cultural diversity and strengthening bonds of brotherhood that unite people of various races and backgrounds.
"May this year’s Kaamatan celebration bring joy and renewed spirit for us to work together in building a more progressive, prosperous and harmonious Sabah. ‘Kotobian Tadau Tagazo do Kaamatan’ (Happy Kaamatan Festival),” he said.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said Kaamatan is a symbol of thanksgiving for the harvest season, passed down through generations and remains an integral part of Sabah’s cultural identity.
He said the vibrant celebration not only reflects the spirit of unity and togetherness among the state’s multi-ethnic communities, but also showcases Malaysia’s unique cultural heritage to the world, in line with the Visit Malaysia 2026 aspirations.
"May this year’s Kaamatan Festival be celebrated with joy, gratitude and harmony, further strengthening Malaysia’s identity as a nation rich in culture, tradition and unity,” he said.
Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said Kaamatan is not only a continuation of cultural heritage, but also an important platform to strengthen unity, harmony and environmental awareness.
The Pensiangan MP said the spirit of Kaamatan is closely linked to shared responsibility in preserving the environment.
"As traditional communities have long valued land and nature for their survival, we too must remain committed to preserving our natural heritage so that future generations can continue to reap its benefits.
"Environmental sustainability is a shared responsibility, and harmony among people becomes more meaningful when we also live in harmony with our surroundings,” he said.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail expressed hope that this year’s Kaamatan celebration would further strengthen love among the people, reinforce peace, and bring prosperity and well-being to the nation and its people.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi also hoped the harvest festival would bring joy, blessings and closer ties among the people.
"For those returning to their hometowns, please drive safely and may you arrive at your destination safely,” he said.
Also extending greetings via social media were Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh. - Bernama
