Kampung Antolob crowned champion at Four-Cornered Gong Competition
KENINGAU (May 4): Amid the vibrant spirit of the Kaamatan Festival that unites hearts and culture, the gong ensemble from Kampung Antolob emerged as the champion of the Four-Cornered Gong Competition held in Kampung Buang Sayang, Bingkor — a testament to the enduring cultural spirit thriving in the face of modernisation.
The colourful cultural competition was successfully organised by the Buang Sayang Bingkor Village Youth Association at the Buang Sayang Multipurpose Hall recently.
The efforts of the local youths deserve high praise for reviving the fading beauty of the traditional gong heritage.
The competition saw participation from four villages: Kampung Buang Sayang, Kampung Antolob, Kampung Minansut and Kampung Tongkongan. However, Kampung Tongkongan had to withdraw at the last minute due to unavoidable circumstances.
The opening ceremony was officiated by Assistant Works Minister and Bingkor Assemblyman Datuk Robert Tawik @ Nordin, a grassroots leader renowned for his unwavering dedication to promoting local culture and heritage.
Second place went to the host team from Kampung Buang Sayang, while third place was awarded to the team from Kampung Minansut.
The prize-giving ceremony was officiated by Kampung Buang Sayang village chief KK Subarjoe Jalil Angkub, with cash prizes contributed by Haji Yazid Hj Mohd Hasnan Tawik Mansai @ Charles who also serves as deputy resident of the Kujau Gana Nabai Sabah Cultural and Welfare Association, committee member of KDCA Keningau, and chairman of the Bingkor Community Welfare Association.
The competition was judged by KK Jue Rovok, village chief of Kampung Bandukan, and cultural expert Andis Tharoi — both well-known for their commitment to preserving the authenticity of traditional arts.
Organising chairperson Heylis Joroh Matalin expressed his satisfaction with the enthusiastic community response and the smooth running of the event.
'This is the true spirit of unity among villages. The gong is not just a rhythmic beat — it is the heartbeat of our culture,' he said, while extending his gratitude to the sponsors, especially Haji Yazid, for their exceptional commitment to cultural development.
The Buang Sayang Bingkor Village Youth Association deserves high recognition — not only for successfully organising an impactful programme, but for standing as a final bastion against the fading of heritage in the tide of modernity.
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