Latest news with #HarvestFestival
The Star
13 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Discover the rural charms of Sabah's cool district, Tambunan
Often, the mention of Sabah conjures up the image of its natural wonders. Rightfully so, as the Land Below The Wind does boast a wide array of flora and fauna. Typically, tourists head straight to Kundasang in the Ranau district for its temperate climate and for Mount Kinabalu – to catch a view of the looming mountain, if not to scale the peak. Roughly 60km from the said district is one that tourists, especially those from out of state, might have never considered visiting: Tambunan. While often overshadowed by its 'cooler' neighbour, Tambunan has no trouble holding its own when it comes to nature and culture. It may be set on a lower elevation than Kundasang, but it still boasts colder weather compared to the lowlands, making it a cool escape from the tropical heat. This year, the spotlight shines on Tambunan as it plays host to Sabah's annual Harvest Festival or Kaamatan. A celebration of bountiful harvest, Kaamatan is also a time when both locals and tourists can fully appreciate the state's melting pots of culture. The Dusun people of Tambunan celebrate Kaamatan every May. — FIFY JOSEPH/Wikimedia Commons As is the norm, the districts in Sabah take turn to host the festival each year. The host's duties include holding the Kaamatan launch on May 1, marking the start of the month-long festivities throughout Sabah and the Federal Territory of Labuan. The grand finale is then held on May 30 and 31 at Hongkod Koisaan KDCA in Penampang. Themed 'Kaamatan For All', or 'Kaamatan Montok Toinsanan' in the Kadazandusun language, this year's festival was launched at Pisompuruan Square, in the Tambunan district's eponymous town. It may be too late to join in the Kaamatan festivities this year (mark your calendar for next May!), but anytime is a good time to discover the rural charms of Sabah. So, why not hop on a plane and kickstart your Sabahan adventure in Tambunan? Locals and tourists alike are mesmerised by the musical sound of Tambunan's Batu Gong. — Batu Gong/Facebook Pisompuruan Square Located in the Tambunan town, Pisompuruan Square alternatively goes by Tamu Ground, due to the tamu (market) that's held weekly here. Every Thursday, the square comes alive with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to traditional delicacies. You can get local products here, in turn helping support the local community. Walking around the square, you might notice a plaque stating Tugu Tambunan Memorial. It marks an area where the Tambunan Unity Stone stands – though perhaps more eye-catching are the statues of two warriors right next to it. The Unity Stone marks the unification of the Gombunan and Tamadon tribes, and the warriors immortalised here were of the said tribes. Legend has it that after forming an alliance with each other, the two tribes christened their shared settlement with an amalgamation of their tribe names. Thus, the birth of Tambunan – 'Tam' from Tamadon and 'bunan' from Gombunan. Since the Kaamatan launch was held at Pisompuruan Square, let's use this as the point of reference for how far the other suggested attractions are from the town. Batu Gong emits sounds like a traditional gong when struck. — Filepic Batu Gong Also known as Turu Miadi (Seven Siblings), Batu Gong is one of nature's most unique offerings. Typically when a rock is struck, it makes a dull thud. Not this one – this rock resonates same as a gong would. Gong is a traditional musical instrument made of brass or bronze, hence the Batu Gong or 'gong rock' moniker. According to the information found at the site housing the unique rock, it was excavated during a river straightening project at Sungai Pegalan in 1995. But its musical disposition was only discovered rather by accident not long after, by a group of children enjoying a dip in the river. It was while playing on the rock that they noted the unexpected sound it made. The villagers of Kampung Solibog decided to relocate the rock into a hut in order to protect and preserve it. Eventually, it became a tourist attraction in the village. Due to its growing popularity, it underwent another relocation in 2022. This time it was to a bigger riverside site that can welcome more visitors. The new site, called Ekopelancongan Nagas Komuniti Kg Solibog (Batu Gong), is accessible via a roughly 10-minute car ride from town. Rafflesia pricei is the species commonly found at Tambunan's Rafflesia Information Centre. — Sabah Forestry Department/Facebook Rafflesia Information Centre There is probably no parasitic plant more revered than the stinking corpse lily – better known as rafflesia. Recognised as the world's largest flowering plant, it is found only in South-East Asia. Sabah is home to three species, two of which are rare and endemic to the state. Rafflesia tengku-adlinii and Rafflesia keithii are the harder species to come by, although the latter has been spotted at the Rafflesia Information Centre, which is located about half an hour by car from town. The more commonly found species at this centre is Rafflesia pricei. With rafflesia being the state's official flower, the Sabah Forestry Department naturally keeps a close eye on it and posts regular updates on social media when it is in bloom. This is especially helpful to avoid disappointment for anyone hoping to witness the massive flower in person, since it does have a relatively short blooming period – lasting only around five days. This centre is perfect if you're not keen on trekking deep into the wilderness. There is already an established trail here, some parts in concrete, making the 20-minute trek to see the blooming flowers relatively easier. Fun fact: Despite rafflesias' notoriety as a foul-smelling plant, not all species actually emit the offensive stench. Rafflesia pricei is among these fairly odourless species. That's another plus point for visiting the centre! Kampung Tikolod is great for water outings, as it is home to Kirongulad Waterfall and Sungai Tikolod. — Sabah Tourism Board website Kirongulad Waterfall Now, if you are the type who's willing to trek deep – very deep – into the jungle, a refreshing reward awaits you. It comes in the form of a cascading body of water that will make your hours-long journey worth every second. The trip to Kirongulad Waterfall kicks off from Kampung Tikolod, a village about half an hour away from town. From the village, a 3km stretch of dirt road traversable by four-wheel drives will take you to the trek's starting point. This is where the real adventure begins. The almost 5km trek from here will even involve walking through padi fields and plenty of wading through streams. Be prepared to get wet long before reaching the waterfall. Despite its more impressive height of 30m, Kirongulad Waterfall doesn't get as much mention as Mahua Waterfall, the 17m-tall cascade that takes its name from the Tambunan village it's located in. This likely stems from accessibility, since Mahua doesn't take a strenuous journey to reach. If you still want to experience the cool waters of Kampung Tikolod but minus the arduous trek, then head to Kintup Recreation Park (TRK). Here you can swim in Sungai Tikolod or try the 'fish spa', where tiny fish will nibble ticklishly on your soaking feet. The three-deck Sinurambi Tambunan offers panoramic views of Tambunan. — Filepic Sinurambi Tambunan Set atop Trig Hill at 877m above sea level is the viewing point, Sinurambi Tambunan. Launched in conjunction with Visit Tambunan Year 2017, the hilltop attraction is less than 30 minutes away from town. It features an interesting shape that takes inspiration from wakid , the traditional bamboo basket used by the Dusun people. The three stacked decks incorporated into the design of the 14m-high tower are meant to accommodate visitors' varying degrees of comfort with height. The first deck is suitable for those who are comfortable being not more than 3m off the ground. The second deck, at 6m, offers better view for those who can handle the height. But many may still prefer the top deck, as it does offer the best vantage point with its height of 9.15m. You can climb this tower to get a sweeping view of not only Tambunan but also Mount Kinabalu, which can be admired from the viewing point on clear days.
The Star
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
‘Kaamatan for All' highlights Sabahans' community spirit
Spoilt for choice: Many come to buy handmade beads and Kaamatan-themed accessories at the Hongkod Koisaan. KOTA KINABALU: All eyes will be on the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association's (KDCA) Hongkod Koisaan in Penampang as the month-long Kaamatan or Harvest Festival will culminate in the grand finale, celebrated today and tomorrow. Since May 1, Sabahans have been celebrating Kaamatan with singing, dancing, traditional games and enjoying delicious food. But it is at the Hongkod Koisaan, which loosely means unity hall, where the energy truly comes alive. The celebration here is always the most colourful and exciting, bringing together people of all races and backgrounds to honour the harvest festival and Sabah's rich traditions. The Hongkod Koisaan, the heart of Sabah's native heritage, is a central hub where traditions, history and the way of life of indigenous communities are preserved, promoted and proudly celebrated. The Kaamatan celebration will be extra special as Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail are expected to attend the celebration today. This will mark the Prime Minister's third appearance at the Kaamatan finale. Sabah's Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman and his wife Toh Puan Faridah Tussin will grace the official closing ceremony tomorrow. Visitors can enjoy cultural performances, traditional sports like blowpipe shooting and stilt walking, as well as visit stalls selling handicrafts, traditional food and attire. They can also add handmade beads and Kaamatan-themed accessories to their collection. One of the highlights of the celebration is the Unduk Ngadau, a special event that honours Huminodun, the legendary maiden who gave her life to save her people from famine. The new Harvest Queen will be crowned tomorrow. This year's theme, 'Kaamatan montok Toinsanan' (Kaamatan for All), is a reminder that true strength lies in the unity and support of the community as everyone strives forward together.
Daily Express
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Express
Kaamatan story brings tradition, love to the screen
Published on: Thursday, May 29, 2025 Published on: Thu, May 29, 2025 By: Lorena Binisol Text Size: Crew members and actors in the 'Roti Kahwin' short film, including Pairin (fourth from left). Kota Kinabalu: A new short film celebrating Sabah's rich cultural attribute has made its mark this Kaamatan season. It is expected to be premiered during the finale of Kaamatan (Harvest Festival) on May 31. 'Roti Kahwin', a mockumentary-style romantic comedy displaying the beauty of identity, love and generational connections, all tied together by a comfort food, the Roti Kahwin (sandwich bread). Produced by Genevieve Duis, 41, and directed by Johan John from Kuala Lumpur, the 45-minute film blends humour and cultural sentiment, giving viewers a unique perspective on Kaamatan. This film is truly a labour of love. The main message is that food, especially something very simple as Roti Kahwin, can bring people together across generations and background. It is about celebrating culture in a fun and relatable way. Advertisement 'We wanted to bring the young and old together, uniting respected Kadazandusun figures and passionate youth to create something fresh, yet deeply rooted in tradition. 'Kaamatan isn't just a reflection of the past. Rather, it's a living, evolving expression of who we are,' said Genevieve, from Kg Nosoob, Penampang. The film also boasts two surprise acting debuts, by Huguan Siou (paramount leader) Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan, a former Chief Minister, and Unduk Ngadau (Queen of Harvest beauty pageant 1968), Rita Mojilis, both of whom brought cultural pride and generational significance to the project. The story is about a college student (played by Nigel Duis) returning to Sabah for his semester break, working as a food delivery rider during the festival season. Amid deliveries and during the festivity, he finds unexpected romance with a regular customer, played by Queenera Francine. Through the simple yet symbolic presence of Roti Kahwin, the film conveys how food can become a love language, connecting people across different backgrounds. Filmed in Kota Kinabalu, with key scenes shot in Kuala Lumpur, the project captures the duality many young Sabahans experience today - balancing tradition with modern urban life. The production features cameo appearances by world arm-wrestling champion Michael Ford, together with a dynamic team of emerging creatives from East and West Malaysia. With its mix of humour, nostalgia and cultural pride, Roti Kahwin – A Kaamatan Story is set to be a significant contribution to Sabah抯 growing film industry, an artistic tribute to the deep-rooted traditions and evolving modern identity of the Kadazandusun people. In last year's Kaamatan, they produced a film titled 'Tarik Tali.' * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Daily Express
3 days ago
- Business
- Daily Express
Express ferry resumes Labuan-Kota Kinabalu operations
Published on: Thursday, May 29, 2025 Published on: Thu, May 29, 2025 Text Size: CEO of Labuan International Ferry Terminal (Lift) management company LDA Holdings Sdn Bhd, Noor Halim Zaini (second left), at the jetty yesterday. LABUAN: The Labuan-Kota Kinabalu-Labuan express ferry service officially resumed operations Wednesday, restoring a crucial transport link between Labuan and the Sabah mainland after a suspension of more than three years due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The Labuan-based Kinabalu Express, at full capacity, departed the Labuan International Ferry Terminal (Lift), which is managed by LDA Holdings, at 10am, with the return trip from Kota Kinabalu scheduled for May 29 at 8am. The vessel, operated by Double Power, can accommodate 212 passengers, offering 146 economy and 66 business class seats. Daily trips will continue from May 28 to June 3 to coincide with the Harvest Festival and school holidays. From June 4 onwards, the ferry will operate every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with possible adjustments based on demand. A promotional fare campaign is being introduced from Wednesday until Aug 3 in conjunction with the Borneo Flora Festival (BFF), aimed at encouraging ridership. Advertisement During this period, Malaysian adults can purchase economy tickets at RM35 and children at RM22.50, while first-class fares are RM45 and RM27.50, respectively. Foreign passengers will be charged RM80 (adults) and RM45 (children) for economy, and RM90 and RM50 for first class. Standard fares will apply starting June 4, with slight increases across categories. Tickets are available online at and can also be purchased at the Labuan International Ferry Terminal and Jesselton Point ticketing counters in Kota Kinabalu. Prior to the pandemic, the route served up to 120,000 passengers annually. Lift Chief Executive Officer Noor Halim Zaini, when met here Wednesday, expressed hope that the ferry's return will spur regional tourism and help revitalise Labuan's local economy. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Labuan-KK ferry resumes operations, first trip at full capacity
Passengers boarding the ferry express to Kota Kinabalu from Labuan International Ferry Terminal jetty on Wednesday. The resumption of the Labuan-Kota Kinabalu-Labuan express ferry service has sparked renewed excitement among travellers, marking the return of a vital transportation link between Labuan and the Sabah mainland.-Bernama photo LABUAN (May 28): The Labuan-Kota Kinabalu-Labuan express ferry service officially resumed operations Wednesday, restoring a crucial transport link between Labuan and the Sabah mainland after a suspension of more than three years due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The Labuan-based Kinabalu Express, at full capacity, departed the Labuan International Ferry Terminal (LIFT), which is managed by LDA Holdings, at 10 am, with the return trip from Kota Kinabalu scheduled for May 29 at 8 am. The vessel, operated by Double Power, can accommodate 212 passengers, offering 146 economy and 66 business class seats. Daily trips will continue from May 28 to June 3 to coincide with the Harvest Festival and school holidays. From June 4 onwards, the ferry will operate every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, with possible adjustments based on demand. A promotional fare campaign is being introduced from today until Aug 3 in conjunction with the Borneo Flora Festival (BFF), aimed at encouraging ridership. During this period, Malaysian adults can purchase economy tickets at RM35 and children at RM22.50, while first-class fares are RM45 and RM27.50, respectively. Foreign passengers will be charged RM80 (adults) and RM45 (children) for economy, and RM90 and RM50 for first class. Standard fares will apply starting June 4, with slight increases across categories. Tickets are available online at and can also be purchased at the Labuan International Ferry Terminal and Jesselton Point ticketing counters in Kota Kinabalu. Prior to the pandemic, the route served up to 120,000 passengers annually. LIFT chief executive officer Noor Halim Zaini, when met here Wednesday, expressed hope that the ferry's return will spur regional tourism and help revitalise Labuan's local economy. – Bernama
