Dr Jeffrey Kitingan
KOTA KINABALU: The Kaamatan Festival is rapidly extending its cultural influence beyond Sabah, becoming an increasingly national celebration.
“With its burgeoning popularity, this year’s Kaamatan could fittingly be termed as the National Level Kaamatan,” said the State Kaamatan Festival Main Organising Committee Chairman, Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan.
Dr Jeffrey, who is also the Deputy Chief Minister, acknowledged that this once Sabah-centric celebration has evolved into a national emblem of unity and cultural heritage.
“Indeed, this year, it is not merely Sabah but the entirely of Malaysia that will be celebrating the harvest festival, signifying a new milestone in the Kaamatan Festival’s journey,” he added.
Dr Jeffrey attributed the festival’s transition into a national event partly to its increased online exposure, especially during the movement control order (MCO) implemented at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when festivities were exclusively digital.
The live streaming of the festival from various districts in Sabah at that time captured both national and international attention, enhancing the festival’s recognition beyond Sabah’s borders.
“As we look forward to a bigger and more inclusive celebration this year, we hope this newfound international recognition will result in a surge in tourism receipts,” he said.
Dr Jeffrey also announced that preparations for the peak of this year’s Kaamatan Festival are progressing smoothly, with Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor slated to officiate the event on May 30.
Adding prestige to this year’s festivities, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is expected to attend and deliver a speech at the event.
Both VIPs will then visit all traditional houses within the KadazanDusun Cultural Association (KDCA) compound, a practice signifying the shared respect and celebration of Sabah’s cultural diversity.
“The festival’s closing ceremony, scheduled for May 31, will be graced by the state’s governor Tun Haji Juhar Mahiruddin, who will also visit the traditional houses,” said Dr Jeffrey.
Despite the loosening of COVID-19 restrictions which could result in a larger anticipated turnout this year, Dr Jeffrey highlighted the importance of vigilance.
“While we look forward to celebrating, it’s important to remember that the pandemic is not over. As we gather with friends and family, we must continue to be responsible. I urge everyone not to drink excessively and, most importantly, not to drink and drive. Let’s care for each other,” he said.
