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Borneo Post
4 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Kaamatan: A call for unity in the land of Huminodun
As Sabah welcomes the radiant glow of Kaamatan and the haunting strains of the sompoton fill the valleys, this sacred period, rooted in the legend of Huminodun, prompts deep introspection and thankfulness. Huminodun, the revered maiden whose selfless act brought forth the first rice harvest, embodies unity and altruism. This leads to a critical question: How can a person who honors such a powerful symbol of cohesion remain entangled in political disarray? The Kadazandusun, Sabah's largest indigenous community, holds vast potential. However, their true strength can only be unlocked by embracing the ancient wisdom of Misompuru (Unity) and forging a collective vision for what lies ahead. At the core of Kadazandusun beliefs is the touching narrative of Huminodun. Faced with devastating famine, Kinoingan, the creator deity, made an unimaginable choice: to save humanity, he had to sacrifice his only child. With immense love and dedication, Huminodun willingly offered herself. Her body was laid into the earth, from which the first rice emerged, sustaining countless generations. This ultimate sacrifice, commemorated yearly during Kaamatan through ceremonies like the Magavau, transcends a mere story of sorrow; it stands as a powerful testament to the strength of unity and the profound connection between individuals and their community. The Unduk Ngadau, or harvest queen, chosen during the festival, personifies Huminodun's purity, wisdom, and grace. Her symbolic role reminds the community that leadership must serve the greater good. Yet, in today's political landscape, this sacred covenant appears forgotten. How has a people united by the legacy of a heroine who gave her life for unity allowed themselves to splinter into factions that seem to thrive on division? Sabah's political sphere has become increasingly fragmented, with multiple parties — UPKO, PBS, PBRS, STAR, among others — jostling for influence under the banner of Kadazandusun rights. Despite their common cause, internal rivalries, shifting alliances, and competing agendas have weakened their collective voice. This political disunity has led to tangible consequences. Native land rights, enshrined in law, are routinely undermined by external interests, yet without a united political front, enforcement remains elusive. Economically, many rural Kadazandusun communities continue to face hardship, trapped in cycles of poverty and underdevelopment, while disjointed leadership fails to marshal coordinated advocacy. The cultural cost is no less grave. A 2017 Borneo Post Online article, 'The Kadazandusun language dilemma,' highlighted that many district youth under thirty struggled to speak Kadazan. This aligns with a 2005 UNESCO report deeming Kadazandusun endangered, a critical indicator that the culture risks disappearing without targeted efforts. This is not the legacy Huminodun died to bequeath. Her act was a call to unity, not a license for petty squabbles. Kaamatan, at its core, has always been more than a celebration of harvest — it is a time of renewal, of reconciling differences, sharing abundance, and reaffirming kinship. In the past, rituals led by the bobohizan or bombolian were not only spiritual acts but mechanisms for healing and consensus. Elders resolved conflicts, families shared the first rice harvest, and the community danced the sumazau in harmonious rhythm, reflecting a society at peace with itself. Today, Kaamatan risks becoming a hollow shell — reduced to pageantry and performance, stripped of its deeper meaning — unless its essence is reclaimed. Imagine if political leaders, instead of trading barbs, genuinely shared tapai under the roof of Hongkod Koisaan, pledging collaboration over competition. Picture the unveiling of a unified agenda for the Kadazandusun people — rooted in land protection, cultural preservation and educational reform — delivered not in separate party platforms, but as a collective vision. Envision young people and women — torchbearers of Huminodun's spirit — leading campaigns that transcend partisan lines, igniting hope in both village halls and digital spaces. The image of Kadazandusun leaders joining in the sumazau, moving in unison like the intertwined roots of the rice plant, could become a powerful living symbol of Misompuru — not just a concept, but a call to action. Around the world, indigenous peoples have found strength in solidarity. The Māori of New Zealand, by uniting under the framework of the Treaty of Waitangi, secured not only land reparations but a firm voice in parliament. In the United States, the Navajo Nation, despite its internal diversity, consolidated political power to protect its resources and secure federal support. These examples show that unity is not a surrender of identity; it is a strategy for survival and growth. The Kadazandusun, with their profound cultural heritage, could likewise wield greater influence through cooperation and shared purpose. Perhaps, like the Māori Kingitanga, a central movement rooted in cultural pride and political coordination could emerge. To make Misompuru a reality, several key steps are needed. The formation of a Kadazandusun Political Council — serving as a neutral platform akin to the bobohizan's role as mediator — could help align party priorities and push for crucial legislation, from protecting Native Customary Rights (NCR) land to intensifying Kadazandusun-language education and developing sustainable rural economies. Grassroots initiatives should accompany this political reawakening. A 'Tumahui do Huminodun' campaign could mobilize youth around the symbolism of her sacrifice, linking tradition to activism through art, dialogue, and community action. Even simple efforts, such as rival politicians co-hosting Kaamatan activities or jointly planting rice, can plant seeds of trust and solidarity. As the gongs echo and the scent of hinava drifts through the air, this Kaamatan, the Kadazandusun are called to make a choice. Will they continue down a path of fragmentation, or rise together as people bound by the same moon that once witnessed their ancestors dance in unity? Huminodun's story is not merely a legend to be admired; it is a roadmap waiting to be followed. Just as her body became the rice that sustained a people, today's leaders must transform their ambitions into nourishment for the collective good. This moment goes beyond politics. It is about safeguarding a heritage — the terraced paddies, the chants of the bobohizan, the laughter of children speaking the language of their forebears. It is about honoring the spirits of those who came before by securing a dignified future for those yet to come. Let this Kaamatan mark a new beginning. Let it prove that Misompuru is not a forgotten dream but a living, breathing force. For as the proverb reminds us: 'Ounsik do Huminodun, ounsik do Kaamatan.' Without Huminodun, there is no harvest. And without unity, there is no future. Nokoturu ti Huminodun, moginum ti tapai do Misompuru (Follow Huminodun's path, and drink the rice wine of unity.)
Daily Express
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Express
Better Unduk Ngadau judging system
Published on: Friday, May 30, 2025 Published on: Fri, May 30, 2025 By: Ricardi Unto Text Size: Joanna (right) explained that the format of the competition remains unchanged, beginning with 51 finalists before narrowing down to 15 and finally selecting the top 7, with two rounds of question-and-answer (Q&A) segments. Kota Kinabalu: The State Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan (UNK) final judging session this year will be improved with the aid of a computerised scoring system and language interpreters, the organisers said recently. State UNK co-chairperson Datuk Joanna Kitingan, during the registration on Monday, said a new computerised scoring system would be introduced for the grand finals on May 31, with hopes it would streamline the process and allow results to be announced earlier, ideally by 5.30pm or 6pm. She added that this year's panel will consist of seven judges - an increase from the usual five. Joanna explained that the format of the competition remains unchanged, beginning with 51 finalists before narrowing down to 15 and finally selecting the top 7, with two rounds of question-and-answer (Q&A) segments. 'In the first Q&A for the top 15, finalists will be required to answer in their mother tongue or native languages, while the second Q&A for the top 7 will be judged on content, accuracy, and confidence,' she said. State UNK co-chairperson Mary Gambidau said the inclusion of interpreters for Lundayeh and Murut languages was a direct response to suggestions from netizens calling for more equitable judging in the final rounds. Advertisement 'At this time, we are only providing interpreters for Lundayeh and Murut because Kadazan and Dusun are widely understood by most judges who are fluent in these languages,' she said. She emphasised that the interpreters will be independent professionals, not part of the organising committee, to ensure impartiality and accurate translation during the Q&A sessions. Mary also revealed that a dedicated and credible question committee, consisting of experts in the Kadazan Dusun language, was formed this year to draft thoughtful and culturally relevant questions. 'We hope the questions this year will be better,' she said. As for the scoring breakdown, the first round of judging for the 51 finalists is based on six components: natural beauty (10 per cent) assessed by the committee, overall beauty (30 per cent) by the judges, traditional attire (25 per cent), stage presence (15 per cent), discipline (10 per cent) assessed by the committee, and the CAN Video Project (10 per cent). The second round for the top 15 finalists focuses on five criteria: natural beauty (10 per cent) assessed by the committee, overall beauty (25 per cent), traditional attire (10 per cent), stage presence (15 per cent), and mother tongue usage (10 per cent) - evaluated based on fluency, content, and confidence - plus discipline (10 per cent) by the committee, totalling 80 per cent. The final round for the top 7 finalists adds a 20 per cent score from the general knowledge Q&A session, judged on content, accuracy, and confidence, making up the remaining percentage to complete the 100 per cent final mark. * 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
Barnama
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Barnama
Kaamatan, Gawai Symbols Of Unity, Harmony Among Malaysians
GENERAL KUALA LUMPUR, May 30 (Bernama) -- The Kaamatan Festival and Gawai Day, celebrated from today until Monday (June 2), are proof that harmony, tolerance and consensus can unite the people of Malaysia as one big family regardless of race, religion and background. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said these festivals not only symbolised gratitude for their harvest but reflected the rich tradition and cultural heritage of the people of Sabah and Sarawak. "From May 30 to June 2 every year, Malaysians, particularly the Kadazan, Dusun, Murut, Rungus, Dayak community and various other ethnicities in Sabah and Sarawak celebrate the Kaamatan Festival and Gawai Day as a symbol of gratitude for the harvest. "May the Kaamatan Festival and Gawai Day celebrations this year bring goodness, prosperity and a brighter future for all Malaysians, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak. Kotobian Tadau Tagazo Do Kaamatan and Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai!,' he posted on X today. Meanwhile, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the Kaamatan Festival proved that cultural diversity in this country not only exists but is also proudly celebrated. "In the spirit of MADANI Malaysia, values like mutual respect, celebrating differences and living together peacefully are principles that we all jointly uphold. "On behalf of the Home Ministry staff, I would like to wish Happy Kaamatan Festival to everyone in Sabah celebrating this festival with great spirit and joy,' he posted on Facebook today. Saifuddin hopes that this year's Kaamatan Festival will be celebrated in a peaceful and meaningful atmosphere and continue to strengthen the spirit of togetherness among the people. 'Kotobian Tadau Tagazo Do Kaamatan!', he said.
The Star
5 days ago
- Politics
- The Star
Unity Minister: Plant seeds of respect in youth for harmony to grow
KUALA LUMPUR: The young generation must be nurtured to understand, respect and embrace diversity as a foundation for national harmony and strength, says Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang (pic). The National Unity Minister said in today's increasingly modern and challenging world, the young generation plays an important role in preserving and upholding the customs and cultural practices of our ancestors. 'The Malaysia Madani government, through the National Unity Ministry, remains committed to strengthening the value of unity as the core pillar of the country's development. 'In line with this spirit, various initiatives such as cross-cultural programmes, heritage education and inter-community dialogues continue to be enhanced to ensure unity remains firmly rooted among Malaysia's multiracial society,' he said in a statement yesterday, Bernama reported. The statement was issued in conjunction with the Kaamatan and Gawai festivals, which are celebrated today and tomorrow. Aaron also conveyed festive greetings to Malaysians, especially the Kadazan, Dusun, Murut, Rungus, Iban, Bidayuh and Selako communities, as well as the various ethnicities in Sabah and Sarawak, who are celebrating the festivals. He said Kaamatan and Gawai are not only heritage celebrations rich in customs and cultural values but also reflect the spirit of gratitude, consensus and unity among Malaysia's diverse communities. Aaron said the spirit of 'Segulai Sejalai', which means moving forward together in harmony, should be embraced as a core value in the lives of all citizens, especially the young generation who will shape the nation's future. He also called on all Malaysians to celebrate Kaamatan and Gawai in the spirit of Malaysia Madani, fostering respect for diversity, preserving cultural heritage and strengthening friendships as the foundation for a united and prosperous nation.
The Sun
6 days ago
- General
- The Sun
Kaamatan Festival, Gawai Day symbol of unity among Malaysia's diverse communities
KUALA LUMPUR: The young generation must be nurtured to understand, respect and embrace diversity as a foundation for national harmony and strength, said Minister of National Unity Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang. He said in today's increasingly modern and challenging world, the young generation plays an important role in inheriting, preserving and upholding the customs and cultural practices of our ancestors. 'The MADANI Malaysia government, through the Ministry of National Unity, remains committed to strengthening the value of unity as the core pillar of the country's development. 'In line with this spirit, various initiatives such as cross-cultural programmes, heritage education, and inter-community dialogues continue to be enhanced to ensure unity values remain firmly rooted among Malaysia's multiracial society,' he said in a statement today. The statement was issued in conjunction with the Kaamatan Festival and Gawai Day, which are celebrated on May 30 and 31. He also wished Malaysians a Happy Kaamatan Festival and Gawai Day, especially the Kadazan, Dusun, Murut, Rungus, Iban, Bidayuh and Selako communities, as well as the various ethnicities in Sabah and Sarawak who are celebrating the festival. He said that the Kaamatan Festival and Gawai Day are not only a heritage celebration rich in customs and cultural values, but also reflect the spirit of gratitude, consensus and unity among Malaysia's diverse communities. According to him, the diversity of cultures, languages ??and heritage possessed by Malaysians is a priceless treasure and a source of strength that makes Malaysia unique in the eyes of the world and must continue to be preserved, respected and celebrated by all levels of society. Aaron said that the spirit of 'Segulai Sejalai', which means moving forward together in harmony, should be embraced as a core value in the lives of all citizens, particularly the young generation who will shape the nation's future. He also called on all Malaysians to celebrate the Kaamatan Festival and Gawai Day in the spirit of Malaysia MADANI, fostering respect for diversity, preserving cultural heritage and strengthening bonds of friendship as the foundation for a united and prosperous nation.
