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Monday, May 9, 2011

A little taste of home in Klang Valley Tadau Kaamatan 2011

Being far away from home in the Land Below the Wind, proved no hindrance for Kadazandusuns in the peninsula who celebrated Kaamatan at Wisma MCA in Jalan Ampang on Saturday.

The Klang Valley Tadau Kaamatan 2011 was a hit not just for the Sabahan community but also their friends who came along to join in the merry-making.

Most claimed surprise and wonder as they witnessed and participated in one of Sabah’s major festivals.

“I have never seen this part of Malaysia before. It is latent but a real beauty. Great culture, I wish I had come in the previous years,” said Hendero Fin from Indonesia, who stopped by to support one of the contestants in the Unduk Ngadau contest.

“I’ve heard about this culture but I’ve never seen how it is celebrated before. It’s different from the three main cultures in Malaysia. I think a beautiful culture such as this deserves enormous exposure” said Keshen Antioni, a film student who is looking for inspiration in his next film project.

Many felt at home as they conversed in their native tongue or local Sabah dialect and enjoyed traditional food like the raw fish salad, hinava and traditional brew, lihing.

It was not difficult to get guests to join in the traditional Sumazau dance accompanied by the lively beats of the gong.

The Huguan Siou (Paramount Leader) of the Kadazandusuns, Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan marked the start of the event by beating the gong which was met with thunderous applause and cheer from the crowd.

Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Datuk Seri Dr. Maximus Johnity Ongkili was also present.

Kaamatan is a thanksgiving celebration after the rice is harvested and is also in commemoration of the legend of Huminodun, who was sacrificed by the creator, Kinoingan, to save the people from famine.

The celebration ends with the selection of the Unduk Ngadau beauty queen who is widely regarded to be a symbol of Hominodun.

Continue reading (Incl. Pic) at: A little taste of home in Klang Valley Tadau Kaamatan 2011
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