LABUAN: The subdued Harvest Festival here this year has drawn the attention of KDM leaders who fear the Kaamatan spirit will be forgotten on the island Federal Territory if the trend continues.
“The Pesta Kaamatan has been held here for decades, organised by KDCA Labuan with the same vigour as any other Sabah district and was eagerly awaited,” said activist George Elias.
“Unfortunately, this year was the worst and it seemed like the some 10,000 who are KadazanDusunMurut have been forgotten,” he said.
George said he was not blaming anyone but that the KDM would be more proud if accorded the recognition they deserved.
He said KDCA as the main body in Sabah responsible for supporting, protecting and preserving the festival and doing a good job on the mainland should provide equal attention to Labuan.
“More so since Labuan was a former Sabah district and has strong connection with Sabah despite being a FT. I am sure they have the resources and budget and this will ensure Labuan remains strongly connected to Sabah,” said George.
He said the perception that the KDMs in Labuan have been forgotten was also evident from the absence of billboards like for festivals of other races.
“Where is the inclusiveness that is so often mentioned for political purposes?”
On another note George said since the Government is concerned about the economic downturn and wants to help, the Harvest season is a good opportunity to restore the duty free status of cigarettes and increase the 4-can beer limit to draw back visitors to Labuan.
Another Labuan KDM, James Simon, said the Kaamatan should have been held here with a Minister invited like in the past.
