Tinorindak Olisi: A Crown Forged in Love and Legacy

Daily Express

3 days ago

Tinorindak Olisi: A Crown Forged in Love and Legacy
This Kaamatan, PETRONAS unveiled 'Tinorindak Olisi' (Crown of Love) a film that redefines victory not by trophies, but by the love and grit that bind us together.
Set against the backdrop of Sabah's iconic Unduk Ngadau pageant, the 6-minute-30-second film follows Elyna Jamis, a young woman who discovers that true triumph lies in community support and personal courage.
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Directed by Ismail Kamarul and starring real-life Unduk Ngadau runner-up Elldiwirna Saimen, the story shines with authenticity, featuring the Dusun language and Sabah's rich traditions.
"When I read the script, it was incredibly close to my own experience," said Elldiwirna.
"I know exactly how it feels to come in second place. While I was not disappointed in real life, I understood those emotions and could bring them to the screen authentically,' she said.
This is Elldiwirna's second acting project, following her debut in an RTM production titled "Cinta Ayu'.
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For the 26-year-old Master's student in Biotechnology at Universiti Malaysia Sabah's Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, this reflects more than just an acting opportunity, it is a platform to feature Sabahan culture globally.
"When PETRONAS creates films like this, featuring our Unduk Ngadau tradition with all our traditional costumes, people across Malaysia get to see and learn about our heritage. They will ask questions, seek to understand and that is how our culture reaches new audiences,' she said.
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The film also stars Daphne Iking, Unduk Ngadau 2003 winner, who plays Elyna's mother.
"Stepping into the role of Elyna's mother in the PETRONAS Kaamatan 2025 film was not just acting. It was a return to my roots,' said Daphne.
'As a former Unduk Ngadau Queen, I once stood as a symbol of tradition, strength and the spirit of Huminodun. This role brought me back to that essence, but this time, through the eyes of a mother guiding the next generation.
"In many ways, it reminded me that Kaamatan is not just about the beauty we wear on the outside, but the values, struggles and stories we carry within.
'To portray a mother holding on to culture, yet gently letting her daughter find her own path… that hit home. A reminder that supports and community is key to growth and togetherness. Everyone is a winner especially when they have done their best,' she said.
"I was so excited when I learned that Daphne Iking would be playing my mother," said Elldiwirna
"She helped me a lot with my acting techniques during our mother-daughter scenes,' she added.
"I want viewers to feel touched and inspired. Life sometimes places us in second position, but that does not mean we stay there forever.
'I especially want young women out there to feel inspired by this story,' said Elldiwirna who hopes the film will resonate with viewers seeking inspiration.
Filming took place across various locations in Sabah, including the Department of National Culture and Arts in Penampang, Kampung Sinulihan in Inanam and the Kadazandusun Cultural Centre.
The production was intensive, with cast and crew working through gruelling 24-hour shoots to capture the film's authentic emotional depth.
"In line with this year's theme, 'Kaamatan for All', this film reminds us that true strength lies in the support and unity we share as a community, especially as we strive toward progress together," said PETRONAS Senior General Manager of Strategic Communications Siti Azlina A Latif.
"Through this story, PETRONAS hopes to inspire all of us to continue uplifting one another in our shared journey toward progress,' she said.
"We not only celebrate the spirit of togetherness through our Kaamatan webfilm but also reaffirm our commitment to strengthening bonds within the community.
"From showcasing local culture to spreading festive joy to underprivileged families, PETRONAS continues to honour traditions while building a more connected and compassionate society for all,' she said.
Beyond storytelling, PETRONAS extended its Uplifting Lives initiative, distributing festive packages to 500 underprivileged families in Sabah during the film's exclusive preview in Kota Kinabalu.
Essential food items and festive packages were distributed to families in need, reaching recipients across four key areas, namely 150 families in Manggatal, 200 in Tambunan, 100 in Tongod and 50 in Kepayan, all identified by the Sabah Social Welfare Department.
This initiative supports communities throughout Malaysia's major celebrations including Chinese New Year, Aidilfitri, Kaamatan, Gawai, Deepavali and Christmas, truly embodying the spirit of unity in diversity.
Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey G Kitingan, who is also Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry cum State-level Kaamatan Festival Organising Chairperson, extended his appreciation for PETRONAS' contributions.
"I want to take this opportunity on behalf of the Sabah Government to express our gratitude to PETRONAS for the important role played not only in economic development but also in community welfare," he said.
"The entire film moved me to tears because it cannot be divided into parts, it must be seen as a complete story. I am very grateful to PETRONAS because every year they create stories that touch the heart and give us messages to reflect upon in our lives,' he said.
"Tinorindak Olisi" is now streaming on PETRONAS' YouTube and Facebook. Join millions in celebrating a story where every effort crowns a winner.