KOTA KINABALU: A rainbow of colourful and unique native performances were staged and traditional sports were held to mark the beginning of this year’s Kaamatan festival.
Hundreds of guests at the Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA) hall were treated to the showcase of Sabah’s melting pot of culture, accompanied by music depicting the sounds of nature from instruments made of bamboo and rattan.
Outside, cheers could be heard from where traditional sports were held amid the loud music and traders outdoing each other trying to sell their products exhibited in booths in the KDCA compound.
The scorching heat did not seem to bother visitors as the crowd from near and far grew from as early as 9am Monday.
Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman, who opened the festival, was amazed at the performances and the support from the people of various backgrounds attending the Kaamatan festival.
He said Kaamatan should continue to be celebrated because it promotes peace, unity and understanding among Sabah’s various cultures.
“I appreciate celebrations such as this one because it is something that has been celebrated for many years, since our ancestors’ time, and it should continue and not be allowed to become extinct with time,” he said.
Huguan Siou (Kadazandusun paramount leader) Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan, who is also Deputy Chief Minister, said Kaamatan is celebrated wholeheartedly by the Kadazandusun and Murut community because of the history behind it.
Continue reading at: Colourful start for Kaamatan festival
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