GELVIA Vanessa Jenny, 24, from Papar was crowned 2026 Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan at the state-level Kaamatan Festival celebration (
pic).
Gelvia received a trophy, RM15,000 in cash and various prizes presented by Faridah Tussin, wife of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri.
It is her second attempt. Her father is a rubber tapper while her mother works as a security guard.
The Unduk Ngadau pageant is a cultural beauty competition that highlights the heritage and traditions of Sabah’s diverse ethnic communities in remembrance of the sacrifices of the legendary Huminodun for the well-being of her people.
Second place was won by Juje Elor, representing Tuaran, who took home a trophy, RM12,000 in cash and additional prizes, while Criszelbellkah Lorris, representing Matunggong district, finished third and received a trophy, RM10,000 in cash and accompanying prizes.
In the male section, Nabawan’s Dyeneley Daud was crowned State Randawi Tavantang Kaamatan (RTK) 2026.
The 19-year-old student beat over 49 other contestants in the state finals.
He took home a prize package worth RM115,000, comprising RM10,000 cash, an exclusive winner’s headgear, as well as sponsored items and services.
Dyeneley said balancing his studies and preparations for the competition was among the main challenges throughout his RTK journey.
He said he had to sit for examinations earlier than his classmates in order to participate in the competition.
Bryan Niccolson Jacob of Keningau was first runner-up while Daniel Chrionie Taning of Tamparuli finished third.
They received prize packages worth RM95,000 and RM84,000, respectively.
The finalists, aged between 18 and 30, represented districts, sub-districts and KDCA branches, including those in Peninsular Malaysia.
