Kaamatan festival fosters togetherness among the people

9 June 2025

KENINGAU: The Kaamatan Unity Festival for the Mukim Senagang level was celebrated with great enthusiasm at the Kampung Senagang Lama Hall recently, once again proving that the spirit of harmony and togetherness among the people of Sabah continues to thrive, regardless of race or religion.

The event was officiated by Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Finance, Lim Hui Ying, who, in her speech, expressed admiration for the tolerance and unity shown by the people of Sabah.

She noted that the “Kaamatan Montok Toinsanan” celebration is more than just a harvest festival; it serves as a powerful symbol of harmony that brings together communities from diverse backgrounds.

“Through Kaamatan, we learn to respect one another, to honour customs and traditions, and to uphold the spirit of ‘Kaamatan for all’, which makes Sabah truly unique,” she said.

A variety of engaging activities enlivened the celebration, including volleyball and futsal matches, traditional games, colouring contests, slingshot competitions, traditional cooking, Sugandoi, Unduk Ngadau Dazanak, traditional hut exhibitions, and lucky draws.

Adding further value to the occasion were informative sessions: a health talk on hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) by the Keningau Health Department, and a drug prevention awareness talk by the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK).

As a gesture of support for the event, Lim also contributed RM20,000 to the Persatuan Pelangi Harapan Sabah.

The event was further graced by the presence of Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe, Minister of Industrial Development and Entrepreneurship; Member of Parliament for Sandakan, Vivian Wong Shir Yee; and special guest Datuk Chew Ah Kau along with a delegation from the Keningau Chinese Chamber of Commerce.

Event chairman Crysco Joseph, in his speech, congratulated all committee members for their commitment and teamwork in ensuring the success of the programme.

This celebration clearly not only revitalised cultural heritage but also strengthened the bonds of kinship among people of diverse backgrounds in Keningau.