KENINGAU: Efforts to empower rural communities received a boost when Universiti Malaysia Sabah’s (UMS) Faculty of Science and Technology (FST) organised a Murut Nabai Ethnic Accessories Making Workshop at Geomatika College, here, recently.
A total of 41 participants from the local community took part in the workshop, held under the Community Empowerment@UniMadani Programme by the UMS Centre for Sustainable Society Engagement (PKLM).
Project Leader Associate Professor Dr Aini Janteng said the workshop aimed to strengthen technical skills in producing Murut Nabai ethnic accessories while preserving the uniqueness of the local artistic heritage, which is gaining interest among the younger generation.
“In addition to helping preserve the art and culture of the Murut Nabai ethnic group, the workshop also opens up opportunities for participants to generate income through the production of traditional accessories with commercial value.
“We are grateful for the support of the President of the Murut Nabai Ethnic Organisation Sabah, Egbert Manjin, and Chairman of the Murut Nabai Cultural Association of Kampung Patikang Laut, Nuar Jaimi, who contributed to the success of this workshop,” she said after the closing ceremony.
Also present were Associate Professor Dr Siti Rahayu Mohd Hashim, Dr Jaludin Janteng from the Labuan Faculty of International Finance, Dr Sarimah Surianshah and Janvin Janteng from UiTM Sabah Branch, who were among the project collaborators.
The workshop featured demonstrations on ethnic accessory making, traditional design training, sharing sessions with the Murut Nabai community, and an exhibition showcasing participants’ creations.
As recognition for their creativity and commitment, organisers presented several awards, including Best Product to Mairen Barunggok, Promising Participants to Nuranissa Abdullah and Cyrill Igak, Best Consistency to Ellynisa Nuar and Julina Angang, Inspirational Award to Shirley Vincent Marukau, Excellent Diligence to Valintina Usad, and Best Spirit to Jacqulynne Cynthia Peter and Silessiah Julianus.
Dr Aini said such workshops should continue to encourage rural participation in arts and heritage-based economic activities.
“This initiative not only empowers rural women and youth but also rekindles interest in ethnic accessory craftsmanship, which remains a source of pride for the Murut Nabai community,” she added.
