Banking on Traditional Items for a Living

22 February 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Sarah S. Magtortor, aged 59, hails from Tawau and has built a livelihood centered around tailoring and selling traditional costumes of the Lotud, Kadazan Penampang, Lundayeh, Tindal, and Kadazan Papar ethnic groups. Her craftsmanship is evident in every piece she creates, as she meticulously tailors each costume and adorns them with sequins and intricate trimmings, making them not only beautiful but also captivating.

Sarah has a unique approach to her business; her customers typically provide their measurements, and she skillfully tailors each costume to fit them perfectly.

“What’s your size?” I will always ask, she shared.

This personal touch has endeared her to many, ensuring that each garment reflects the wearer’s style while honoring the rich cultural heritage it represents.

In the past, Sarah operated a stall at Asia City, where she showcased her vibrant creations. Customers would marvel at the dresses, admiring the craftsmanship before deciding whether to make a purchase or commission a bespoke outfit. The stall was a hub of activity, filled with the buzz of conversation and the joyful chatter of curious shoppers exploring the beauty of Sabah’s traditional attire.

One might assume that, as a person of Filipino descent, she would not have an in-depth understanding of local traditional costumes. However, Sarah is quick to dispel that notion. She often seeks advice from her daughter-in-law and son-in-law, both of whom are locals. Their insights have proven invaluable, enabling her to accurately capture the essence of each ethnic group’s attire while continually expanding her knowledge and refining her skills.

She has also consulted Datuk Joanna Kitingan, a renowned champion of Kadazandusun heritage, who possesses extensive experience in cultural preservation. Sarah believes that her creations are based on authentic designs that reflect the true essence of this rich cultural legacy.

Regarding the development of her shop, she explained, “I no longer operate from Asia City, as I don’t have anyone available to manage the shop full-time. Instead, I now store all my items at my son’s house in Kg Terawi. Everything is there, but when I receive invitations to sell my wares at various functions or marketplaces, I eagerly participate.”

“I also sell online, utilizing platforms like Facebook and TikTok. These social media channels are incredibly beneficial due to their extensive reach; they allow people from far and wide to view my products and place orders directly. While I don’t conduct live-selling sessions, I create engaging content that showcases my offerings. Even without live interactions, the response to my posts has been overwhelmingly positive, demonstrating the power of these platforms in connecting me with a broader audience.”

Reflecting on the initial capital for her business, she shared, “Before starting this venture, I worked as a landscaper, earning an income of RM2,800, not including my commissions. I carefully saved my money, and once I had enough, I decided to launch my business. I was determined not to borrow from a bank.”

“I intend to continue with my business as long as I am physically able to do so. Admittedly, I’m not as swift as I used to be when it comes to making dresses and adding trimmings. In the past, I could complete the embellishments for six or seven costumes in a timely manner, but now I can only manage two or three.”

When discussing customer preferences, she noted that clients from Peninsular Malaysia, particularly those in Kuala Lumpur, have a strong affinity for Tindal costumes and often request that she tailor them specifically for them. The Dusun Tindal community, which primarily inhabits the plains of Tempasuk in Kota Belud, is known for its stunningly vibrant costumes, which have captured the interest of many.

“I was recently asked to create six pieces of this costume. I have supplied costumes to Istana Budaya and have received a request from Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad (BSKL) to make costumes for them as well,” she stated.

In addition to offering traditional costumes, she also sells modernized headgear, bracelets, ankle ornaments, and belts. These accessories beautifully complement the traditional attire, enhancing the overall aesthetic and allowing customers to create a complete and refined look.

At the recent Borneo Bites Festival held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), Sarah showcased her wares at her booth. Her friendly and exuberant personality drew in numerous customers, who were captivated by her warm demeanor and engaging presence.

Sarah’s passion for her craft shone brightly, creating a welcoming atmosphere that encouraged visitors to explore her diverse offerings.

Through her dedication, Sarah has not only preserved the beauty of these traditional costumes but has also created a unique space for cultural exchange and collaboration within her family, blending her heritage with that of her local community.