PAITAN: The long-standing aspirations of the Sungai community to have a dedicated cultural hub have been fulfilled with the completion of the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) Paitan Hall.
KDCA first Vice-President and Sugut Assemblyman Datuk James Ratib said the hall was constructed to strengthen the social and cultural development of indigenous communities, particularly the Sungai ethnic group, key community in Sabah’s East Coast.
Advertisement
X500px(H).jpg)
“Three acres of land were allocated for the hall, while the construction cost of approximately RM500,000 was funded under the Sugut assemblyman’s allocation.
The hall was built two years ago and has now been completed, ahead of its official opening on Friday by KDCA president and Huguan Siou Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan, in conjunction with the Paitan district-level Kaamatan Festival celebration,” he said.
James, who also serves as the state Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister, said the 4,000-square-foot hall features an open-concept design with basic facilities, including toilets, meeting rooms, a stage, and other amenities suitable for community programmes.
The hall can accommodate over 300 people at a time and is expected to serve as the central venue for cultural, educational, social, and community development activities.
“This hall is more than a building; it is a symbol of recognition and appreciation for the Sungai community, providing a space to preserve and promote their culture, customs, and heritage. It also marks a new landmark for Paitan and acknowledges the significant role of the Sungai community in Sabah’s cultural landscape,” James added.
He emphasised that the Sungai ethnic group possesses a rich and unique cultural identity and that the facility will provide the younger generation with a space to learn, appreciate, and carry forward their ancestral heritage.
He also hoped that the hall would be fully utilised to organise programmes that foster unity and togetherness within the community.
