RANAU: The combined celebration of Tadau Kaamatan and Easter can serve as a catalyst for gratitude, harmony and unity among the people, said organisers of the St Peter Claver Ranau Parish-level Kaamatan and Easter Celebration 2026 held at St John of the Cross Chapel, Kampung Tambiau.
The gathering involved local leaders and communities from across the parish and was led by Ranau Parish Priest Rev Fr Ambrose Michael Atang. Also present was Ranau Member of Parliament, Datuk Jonathan Yasin.
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In his speech, Fr Ambrose welcomed the presence of parishioners and guests, expressing hope that the celebration would strengthen solidarity, brotherhood and appreciation for local traditions while giving thanks for the harvest and blessings received.
“Thank God the Father above because today we can gather together to celebrate the Ranau Parish Kaamatan Festival held at St John of the Cross Chapel, Kg Tambiau, Ranau.
“With full gratitude and thanks to all the Parish-level Kaamatan Preparation Coordination Committee who worked so hard in preparing for this Kaamatan Festival,” he said.
Fr Ambrose also conveyed his appreciation to the liturgical team and all those who contributed directly and indirectly towards making the event a success.
“To all the people who came today to celebrate the Parish Kaamatan, I invite you to thank God for His call so that we can gather together to celebrate our Parish Kaamatan Festival.
“I pray that the spirit of cooperation among brothers and sisters will remain strong in every involvement and service,” he added.
Organising Chairman Walter Sunggin said the Word of God should remain the foundation of the Kaamatan spirit, encouraging the faithful to always be grateful for sustenance, harvest and life bestowed by God.
He thanked the Parish Pastoral Council for entrusting the Kibbas Zone with hosting this year’s celebration and expressed appreciation to all contributors for their support in terms of finances, manpower, time and moral encouragement.
“Hopefully this Kaamatan Festival will be a platform for us to strengthen unity, foster the spirit of family, and be grateful for all the blessings we have received,” he said.
Meanwhile, Ranau Parish Pastoral Council (MPPR) Chairman Dr Gofri Nenghilon said the combined Kaamatan and Easter celebration was organised as a practical initiative to save resources while maintaining the festive and spiritual significance of both occasions.
He congratulated the organisers for successfully hosting the event in a lively and meaningful atmosphere and expressed hope that the spirit of cooperation would continue next year when the Planning Zone hosts the celebration.
The event was further enlivened with symbolic paddy harvesting by Jonathan, Fr Ambrose, Dr Gofri and other guests, as well as cake-cutting ceremonies, singing performances, traditional food feasts and various stage activities.
Among the activities organised were Sugandoi, Runduk Dazanak, folk sports, Manganit Lugus, Manganit Piasau, Moniri Parai, Rampanau and a mini fun fair.
The Kaamatan and Easter celebrations are often observed together at parish level as a reflection of gratitude, harmony and unity among the people.
While Kaamatan highlights Kadazandusun culture and thanksgiving for the harvest, Easter commemorates the Christian celebration of hope and renewal, with both carrying messages of joy and gratitude for life’s blessings.
