Kadazandusun Language Preservation Boosted by Writing Competition

21 February 2026

PENAMPANG: The preservation of the Kadazandusun language is vital for maintaining the cultural identity and heritage of the Kadazandusun people.

One effective method of achieving this is through the creation of books and written materials in the language, which can serve as valuable educational resources and foster a sense of pride within the community, said the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Kadazandusun Language Foundation (KLF), Datuk Phillip Lasimbang.

He said this during the Tan Sri Bernard G Dompok (TSBGD) Literary Award presentation at Huguan Siou Hall in Tuavon today.

In line with this objective, KLF organised a writing competition aimed at encouraging local writers to produce literary works in the Kadazandusun language. Dubbed the Tan Sri Bernard G Dompok (TSBGD) Literary Award, the competition received a total of 16 entries from aspiring writers across the community. Following a thorough assessment by a panel of judges, 10 participants were shortlisted for their outstanding submissions.

These shortlisted writers demonstrated creativity, cultural depth and linguistic proficiency — elements essential for revitalising and sustaining the language for future generations, Phillip said, adding that this initiative not only showcases the talent within the community but also underscores the importance of preserving the Kadazandusun language through written expression.

He acknowledged that there is room for improvement but nothing that could not be rectified, as KLF will assist in editing and improving the submissions, particularly with regard to standard spelling.

Since 2012, 89 literary works have been received by the foundation, and he expressed hope that more submissions will be forthcoming in the future.

The winner of the competition was Neomi Binti Salikup from Kg Taginambur, Tamparuli, whose book titled Sondihon Do Koposion won first prize. She received RM7,500. The first runner-up was Edna Stacy Sumandi from Kg Tomboilik, Tenghilan, with her book entitled Ngingis Kalangadan. She received RM4,500. The second runner-up was Priscilla Moses Gukim from Kg Togudon, Penampang, with her book entitled Tomoimo Id Ginavo. She received RM3,000.

There were seven consolation prizes of RM750 each. The recipients were Faveyana Linos from Kg Tombongon, Menggatal; Leolarry Lajius from Kg Tudan Lama, Ranau; Adrian Soidi from Kg Bundu Tuhan, Ranau; Ainah Gimir from Kg Tobobon, Kiulu, Tuaran; Witer Gunik from Kg Marakau, Ranau; Neomi Jemmy @ Edward from Kg Koliasan Moyog, Penampang; and Angela Peter from Kg Kibabaig, Penampang.