Randawi Tavantang Kaamatan: A New Chapter for Cultural Leadership Among Sabah’s Youth

29 May 2025

PENAMPANG: The finals of the Buvazoi Tavantang Kaamatan competition this year marked more than just the crowning of a cultural ambassador—it marked the beginning of a reimagined platform for male youth leadership and cultural advocacy in Sabah.

Held as part of the State-Level Kaamatan Festival 2025, the event was officiated by Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey G. Kitingan, Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Sabah, who also chairs the festival’s Main Organising Committee.

In his keynote speech, Dr Jeffrey lauded the competition's evolution into a prestigious and meaningful arena for grooming young leaders. He announced that beginning next year, the competition will carry a new name: Randawi Tavantang Kaamatan—a rebranding effort that, he explained, “is not merely a change of name, but a transformation in purpose.”

“This competition is no longer just about charm or physical appearance,” Dr Jeffrey said. “It is a platform for discovering future leaders—those who can make real contributions to culture, tourism, education, and community service.”

Each finalist is now required to present and implement a community-focused manifesto, shifting the competition’s focus towards impact-driven leadership. This innovation, championed by long-serving competition chair Totu Casey Jovial, ensures that contestants not only represent the culture visually but embody it through action.

“Through their manifestos, these young men take on the role of Susumangod—cultural warriors who carry the torch of heritage not only in Sabah but on the global stage,” Dr Jeffrey added.

The competition has made international waves. Since 2023, it has represented Malaysia in cultural forums abroad, including a standout performance in Indonesia where the Sabah delegate earned the “Most Influencer” award out of 200 participants from 40 countries—proof, Dr Jeffrey said, of the “global appeal and depth of Sabah’s youth.”

He took time to acknowledge Totu Casey’s eight years of dedicated leadership, crediting him with transforming the event from a casual pageant into a cornerstone of the Kaamatan celebrations. “Thanks to his vision, more of our youth today are reconnecting with their roots and embracing the responsibility of cultural stewardship.”

Dr Jeffrey also drew a powerful parallel between Buvazoi Tavantang and its female counterpart, Unduk Ngadau, noting that both embody different but equally important aspects of cultural identity.

“If Unduk Ngadau celebrates the grace and resilience of women, then Randawi Tavantang honours the strength, values, and leadership of young men,” he said.

“Together, they represent the two wings of a bird—both essential for our culture to soar.”

The rebranding to Randawi Tavantang Kaamatan signifies more than a fresh name. ‘Randawi’, he explained, symbolises a young man who is not only strong in form but rooted in values, heritage, and love for his culture.

The competition, he hopes, will continue to inspire and unite young men in cultural leadership, today and for generations to come.

In his closing remarks, Dr Jeffrey commended the entire competition leadership, led by Totu Casey, for their vision, sincerity, and tireless effort.

“You have proven that with genuine spirit and dedication, our youth can rise as icons of culture and torchbearers of a proud legacy,” he said.

With that, the Randawi Tavantang Kaamatan State-Level Competition 2025 was officially declared open, setting the stage for a new era of cultural pride and leadership among Sabah’s youth.

Photo Caption: Dr Jeffrey G. Kitingan delivering his address at the finals of the Buvazoi Tavantang Kaamatan 2025.