28-04-2025
‘Kaamatan For All' theme promotes unity and tourism
Leonard (third from right) after the interview session at SABAHfm. – Sabah Information Department photo
KOTA KINABALU (Apr 28): 'Kaamatan for All' or in the Kadazan language, Kaamatan Montok Toinsanan, has been chosen as the theme for this year's Kaamatan Festival.
The Permanent Secretary of the Sabah Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry, Datuk Leonard Stephen Poyong, stated that the theme was selected to strengthen unity and the spirit of brotherhood among the people of Sabah, while also enhancing national integration for all Malaysians.
'The Kaamatan Festival is celebrated by all levels of society in Sabah and Malaysia, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, background, or way of life.
'Kaamatan also reflects harmony and goodwill, in line with the Malaysia Madani concept,' he said after an interview session with SABAHfm at the Integrated Complex of the Ministry of Communications here on Monday.
According to Leonard, the state-level Kaamatan Festival launch is scheduled to take place on May 1 in Tambunan, with various exciting events prepared.
He mentioned that among the highlights is the opening ceremony, which will be officiated by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor.
'In addition, various exhibition booths, including those from private and government sectors, will be set up, and the Farmers, Livestock Breeders and Fishermen's Day celebration will also be held simultaneously.
'We will also launch the Rural Agriculture Revolution project, which will be officiated by the Chief Minister,' he said.
Leonard added that various programs have been organized to attract public attendance at the Kaamatan Festival launch in Tambunan, while also promoting the district as a prime tourism destination for local and international visitors.
'One of our hopes is to showcase Tambunan as a successful tourism hub through exhibitions of woven crafts, woodwork, and local products from the district.
'It also provides opportunities for residents around Tambunan, including Keningau, Sook, Nabawan and Pensiangan, to be directly involved in organizing this state-level festival,' he added.
