KOTA KINABALU: Members of Sabah’s largest indigenous ethnic group should continue using “Kadazan Dusun” as their collective identity, said Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) Deputy President Datuk Joseph Paulus Lantip.
“The term is already enshrined in the constitution of the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) and should remain the standard reference used in official matters and public discourse.” Joseph said this during the registration of the State Randawi Tavantang Kaamatan (RTK) 2026, Saturday.
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He said suggestions to introduce additional terms such as “KDMRS” would only complicate efforts to unify the community under a single identity.
He said KDCA currently comprises 48 ethnic associations, making it impractical to list every ethnic group individually in official usage.
Joseph said members could still use their respective ethnic identities such as Kimaragang, Rungus or Sungai within their families and communities.
However, he said the broader public identity should remain “Kadazan Dusun” when referring to the community collectively.
“The Chinese community is widely recognised under a single collective identity despite consisting of many different sub-ethnic groups and dialects.” Joseph said.
He said the same principle applies to the Kadazan Dusun community, where a common identity is used in public while individual ethnic identities are still maintained in daily life.
Joseph said the Kadazan Dusun identity is already widely recognised internationally through Kaamatan celebrations and community activities held across Malaysia and abroad.
He added that maintaining a single identity is important in strengthening unity and ensuring consistency in public reference.
Joseph stressed that unity remains key in reinforcing the community’s cultural strength and shared identity.
He reiterated that while ethnic diversity within KDCA is acknowledged, a common collective name is necessary for official and public use.
On RTK, Joseph said the programme also reflects continued efforts to promote cultural heritage alongside youth participation.
He added that the competition provides a platform for cultural expression while strengthening identity awareness among younger generations.
