TONGOD: Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Dr. Joachim Gunsalam has called on Sabah’s diverse ethnic communities to take greater initiative in preserving and promoting their cultural identities as a means to strengthen unity and harmony in the state.
Speaking at the Tongod District-level Kaamatan Festival 2025 in Kampung Entilibon on Saturday, Joachim emphasized the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage amid modernization and globalization.
“Every ethnic and sub-ethnic group in the state should take pride in their inherited cultural identities and work harder to showcase their uniqueness,” he said.
“We must preserve the rich traditions of the Kadazan, Dusun, Murut, and Rungus (KDMR) communities, including traditional attire, music, and customs, and ensure they are passed down to future generations.”
Joachim, who also serves as the Minister of Local Government and Housing, highlighted the Kaamatan festival as a vital platform for fostering unity among Sabah’s multiracial communities and showcasing the state’s cultural diversity.
He also stressed the role of harmonious interethnic relations in maintaining national stability. “Collaboration and mutual respect among people of different backgrounds are the foundation of stability, peace, and progress in Sabah,” he said.
The Deputy Chief Minister expressed appreciation to Kuamut State Assemblyman Datuk Masiung Banah, Tongod District Officer Yuesri Ismail Yusof, and the organizing committee for their efforts in hosting the three-day celebration, which began on May 7.
The festival featured cultural performances, handicraft exhibitions, and the district-level Unduk Ngadau beauty pageant.
Joachim also noted the economic benefits of the Kaamatan celebration at the district level and reiterated the government’s commitment to statewide development, including in rural districts such as Tongod.
“Give the current government a chance. Over the past five years under Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), the state’s revenue has grown, reaching nearly RM7 billion in 2023 and 2024. These funds have been channeled back to the people through various forms of assistance,” he said.
He encouraged communities to celebrate Kaamatan at every level — in villages, schools, and organizations — in line with this year’s theme, “Kaamatan for All,” which he described as fitting for Sabah’s peaceful and diverse society.
Meanwhile, Tongod District Officer Yuesri thanked Joachim for officiating the event and acknowledged the Ministry of Local Government and Housing’s support in upgrading the Entilibon hall, which improved the venue for community events.
In a separate event, Joachim, accompanied by his Political Secretary and Telupid Assemblyman Datuk Jonneybone Kurum, also officiated the Kaamatan celebration for the Pekan Subdistrict in Kg. Bauto, Telupid.
