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Kota Kinabalu: A young Sabah student brought international recognition to local folklore by winning gold in the 2025 Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition.

Ferdiana Osmund, 16, a first-year Automotive Technology student at Keningau Vocational College (KVC), earned the prestigious award for her essay on Huminodun, the legendary figure in Kadazandusun culture. 

The annual competition, organised by the Royal Commonwealth Society in the United Kingdom, is the world’s oldest international writing contest. 

Ferdiana received the results of her submission via email on Nov 15.

Her essay, titled “Huminodun: The Spirit of Sacrifice in Sabah’s Sacred Soil,” tells the origin story of Huminodun, who sacrificed herself for the well-being of the native community during a prolonged drought and failing crops. 

Her sacrifice became the foundation of customs and traditions that is still being practised, including the Kaamatan festival celebrated every May.

Ferdiana was born in Tambunan and raised in Penampang, where she learned Kadazandusun history and traditions. 

She said she was thankful that her essay on Sabah folklore was recognised with a gold award in  an international competition.

Dr Mohd Sirhajwan Idek, Head of the Research and Innovation Department at KVC, praised Ferdiana’s achievement, saying it also brought wider recognition to the legend of Huminodun. 

“It’s not just her achievement but also the local legend being honoured as an important figure in society,” he said.

Dr Sirhajwan, who has long encouraged his students to participate in international competitions, recalled how Ferdiana first showed interest in joining contests earlier this year. 

“She is a fresher and when she reached out to me about an innovation contest, I realised she has good English. I encouraged her to take part in this competition. 

“This is a great motivation for young people to gain recognition through their hard work and skills.

“This shows how local legends and cultural heritage can resonate on the global stage through the voices of our youth,” he added.

KVC Director Lumang anak Lang also congratulated Ferdiana, describing her success as an inspiration for other students to continue developing their language and writing skills.

Dr Sirhajwan revealed that four other KVC students also participated in the competition. While one was disqualified for unknown reasons, Iris Sofea Irfin won silver and Jason Robert Sopining together with Ashraf Alexander Anuar each received bronze.