KOTA MARUDU: Kaamatan Festival celebrations not only preserve Sabah’s cultural heritage and uniqueness but also help stimulate the local economy, particularly for fashion designers, tailors, beauty centres, traditional attire entrepreneurs and traders, said Datuk Redonah Bahanda.
Redonah, who is Chairperson of Sedcovest Holding Sdn Bhd and Women’s Chief of Parti Gagasan Rakyat Sabah, said the annual festival is among the most anticipated events for businesses directly and indirectly involved in the celebrations.
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Speaking as Patron III of the organising committee for the Kaamatan Festival Kota Marudu 2026 during the Sodop Pisompuruan Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan Kota Marudu 2026 event, she said contestants, committee members, guests and attendees often showcased Sabah’s contemporary traditional attire during competitions and cultural events.
They wear contemporary traditional costumes as a symbol of beauty and cultural heritage that continues to be preserved,” she said. Datuk Redonah added that most of the costumes were designed and tailored by local talents from Kota Marudu and other districts in Sabah.
“We are proud to wear our cultural attire, whether in its traditional form or modernised designs,” she said.
At the event, Audrey Tia Terrence won the Best Dress or Basaan Tinandai Togingo title wearing a creation by Gabril Mardi.
Sunshine Ros Samcion Tadle was named first runner-up in attire designed by Celesryano Claudius, while Elisa Grace Saimon placed third wearing a design from My Angel Design Collection.
Sunshine Ros also won six subsidiary awards, including Tati Tasuau (Miss Friendly) and four sponsored titles namely Tati Aaron Solution Sdn Bhd, Tati Dr Ko, Tati Coa Beauty and Tati PSG Gas.
Meanwhile, Ceavrina Jainin received three awards, including Tati Kasanangan Facebook as well as sponsored titles Tati Iclick and Tati Opawai Kava Base.
Redonah, who is also a key contributor to the district-level Kaamatan celebrations, praised the professionalism and strong family spirit shown by organisers throughout the programme, from registration and photography sessions to rehearsals.
She also described the Unduk Ngadau pageant as closely associated with women, whom she described as inspirations, builders of civilisation and motivators for future leaders.
“To all Unduk Ngadau participants, you are champions in our hearts for continuing the spirit of Huminodun, who sacrificed for society and future generations. Your presence on this stage symbolises strength and deep love for our culture,” she said.
She congratulated all winners and subsidiary title recipients, expressing hope that the recognition would inspire them to continue excelling in the future.
