PAITAN: Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) Vice-President 1 Datuk James Ratib that the abbreviation KDMR, which symbolises the Kadazan, Dusun, Murut and Rungus (KDMR) communities, be expanded with the addition of the letter “S” to represent the Sungai ethnic group, making it KDMRS.
He said the proposal was made in recognition of the role and standing of the Sungai community as one of the tribes under the Paitanic group and one of the major ethnic communities in the region, particularly given its large population on Sabah’s East Coast.
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According to him, the inclusion of the letter “S” in the abbreviation is significant to ensure that the Sungai community is officially recognised as part of Sabah’s largest indigenous ethnic grouping.
“It is indeed appropriate (to include ‘S’ to represent the Sungai tribe) because the Sungai community is also one of the ethnic groups within the KDMR cluster, and their population is among the largest in Sabah, especially on the east coast.
“In fact, the Sungai community is one of the largest groups. Therefore, on behalf of the Sungai people, I request that the letter ‘S’ be added so that the abbreviation becomes KDMRS.
Although the pronunciation of KDMRS may be slightly longer, it is not an issue as long as all ethnic groups feel appreciated and included,” James said at the Paitan district-level Kaamatan Festival, officiated by Huguan Siou Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan, Friday.
James, who is also Sugut Assemblyman, said the Sungai community possesses a rich history, culture and heritage, while also playing an important role in Sabah’s social, economic and cultural development.
He said recognition through the addition of the letter “S” was not merely about changing an abbreviation, but carried significant meaning in terms of honouring the identity and contributions of the ethnic group to Sabah.
“The Sungai ethnic group has unique customs, language and traditions. They are part of the strength of Sabah’s indigenous communities and deserve equal representation in any form of cultural representation.
“In fact, a representative from the Sungai community has now become part of KDCA’s highest leadership, namely myself, as KDCA first vice-president,” James said.
He added that inclusive recognition would instill pride and strengthen the sense of belonging among younger generations to continue preserving their respective cultural identities, especially as Sabah is well known for its ethnic and cultural diversity.
“Therefore, every ethnic group should be accorded proper respect so that this heritage can continue to be preserved for future generations,” he said, adding that the proposal received positive reactions from the Sungai community, which viewed the move as a great honour to their identity.
