Be united, indigenous community urged

17 August 2025

TENOM: The Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) has called on the Murut, Lundayeh and other indigenous groups recognised in its constitution to remain united under the association’s umbrella, despite their ethnic names not being explicitly reflected in KDCA’s title.

KDCA Secretary-General, Datuk Suman Yasambun, said the main challenge faced by the association is ensuring that the public understands the true intent and inclusive spirit of KDCA since its formation.

“This issue has long been clarified through conventions held in the past and should no longer be debated. We must now look ahead,” he said.

Suman stressed that understanding of ethnic identity, culture, and language should begin at home, where early education can instil awareness in younger generations and guide communities towards a common direction.

He was speaking at the presentation ceremony of 15 letters of appointment to the KDCA Tenom District Community at Perkasa Hotel on Friday.

KDCA, now in its 60th year, was established with the goal of uniting the diverse indigenous communities of Sabah, particularly following the state's entry into the Malaysian Federation.

“Although we are known by different ethnic identities, we share the same ancestral roots. KDCA was formed as a platform for unity. Without it, there’s a real possibility we would have become fragmented.

“It is important that we protect our rights and cultures under one agreed umbrella, as stated in KDCA’s constitution,” he said.

Suman reaffirmed that KDCA is not involved in politics but focuses on community development, especially in education, to ensure no group is left behind in the state’s progress.

“It is more beneficial to expand KDCA branches into rural areas than to establish new ethnic-based associations. KDCA provides a solid platform for networking, especially among professionals, business owners, and corporate leaders.

“We also have a Women’s Council with representatives from every district, providing a valuable space for collaboration and marketing,” he added.

He further noted KDCA’s commitment to preserving ethnic languages by advocating for their inclusion in the school curriculum, ensuring that cultural heritage is passed down to future generations.

Suman assured that the cultural identities of the Murut and Lundayeh communities would not be diminished within KDCA but would be better safeguarded under its inclusive framework.

Meanwhile, KDCA Tenom District Coordinating Chairperson, Stanis Buandi, expressed his appreciation to Suman for officiating the event, which also included the submission of application forms from nine proposed new branches.

Among those present were KDCA Tenom District Deputy Chairperson, Simon Mamat; Native Chief, Datuk Lucas Umbul; Press Secretary to the Deputy Chief Minister, Celestina Ubing; and other local community representatives.