Kota Kinabalu: Kaamatan Festival is more than a harvest festival, serving as a symbol of unity, harmony and strong social bonds among the Kadazandusun community and Sabah’s diverse population, said KDCA Youth Council (KYC) Chairman Steve Johnny Mositun.
He said the spirit of Kaamatan should inspire people to set aside disputes, differences and divisions that could undermine social cohesion.
Instead, he urged Sabahans to focus on self-improvement, community development and efforts to build a better future for the next generation.
Steve said Kaamatan has long proven its value as a platform for cultural unity and mutual understanding, bringing together people from different backgrounds through various traditional activities and programmes.
He said events such as Sugandoi, Unduk Ngadau and Hiis enable participants to share experiences and appreciate the cultural diversity that forms one of Sabah’s greatest strengths.
According to him, these activities not only preserve cultural heritage but also help connect younger generations with traditional values while fostering mutual respect and understanding.
Steve said the Kaamatan spirit now extends beyond Sabah through the establishment of six KDCA branches in Peninsular Malaysia and Sarawak, further strengthening ties among Kadazandusun communities and Sabahans across the country.
He said advances in technology and digital platforms have also enabled Kaamatan celebrations to reach audiences worldwide, promoting Sabah’s unique cultural heritage internationally, and called on the public to uphold the spirit of gratitude and Huminodun’s sacrifice in the pursuit of a more harmonious, inclusive and united Sabah.
