Sabah Head of State Tun Juhar Mahiruddin (second right) doing a duet of Frank Sinatra’s “My Way” with Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association president Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan, while Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor (second left) looks on, at Hamin Penampang on Thursday (May 30).
KOTA KINABALU: The beating of gongs and the sound of bells, accessories and other traditional musical instruments welcomed guests at the Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA) grounds here with the state-level Kaamatan (Harvest) festival officially launched yesterday.
Sabah Head of State Tun Juhar Mahiruddin and his wife Toh Puan Norlidah RM Jasni, Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan as well as other ministers and dignitaries were among the thousands who thronged the Hongkod Koisaan hall in KDCA.
Traditional performances from the district of Ranau called Sumirid, choir performances from the group Male-Efficient, native storytelling known as Manangon, traditional poetry known as Hiis, and other dances and songs were performed for the guests.
In his welcoming speech, Kitingan said Kaamatan is a festival of unity and cultural experience while celebrating gratitude for a bountiful harvest for the year.
It is also a platform for cultural promotion and continuation of traditions characterised by attire, dance and food, he said.
“It is important that we keep this part of our tradition alive and make sure that the younger generation could understand and appreciate their roots.”
He called upon all to work together to preserve the traditions of the Kadazandusun, Murut and Rungus communities, as well as other races and religions in this country.
In line with this year’s Kaamatan theme, “Kaamatan, beyond food security”, he urged the community to work as one in preserving and conserving Sabah’s natural attractions and treasures.
Kitingan said it is vital that everyone conserve and protect nature in tackling global warming and lack of food supplies as they move forward in this era of modernisation.
After the opening ceremony, Juhar and other guests visited the various traditional houses where they were treated to food samplings, cultural dances, traditional games and other activities.
Today, the state will see the crowning of the Unduk Ngadau or Harvest Queen, chosen from among 51 finalists, who represents the legendary Huminodun.
Huminodun, the daughter of gods Kinoingan and Sumundu, was said to be the kindest and most beautiful girl who ever lived.
She sacrificed herself amid a famine so that the people would have food.
The legend is the basis of the annual month-long Kaamatan Festival, which culminates on May 30 and 31.
Kaamatan is where the people of Sabah, especially farmers, give thanks to the Gods – during the ancient times of animism – for the abundance of their harvest.
