Kota Kinabalu: The Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) announced stricter enforcement for this year’s State-level Kaamatan celebrations, promising a more organised, family-friendly and culturally respectful event.
KDCA Deputy President and Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan said the festival, set to culminate on May 30 and 31 at the KDCA grounds in Penampang, would no longer tolerate unruly behaviour such as table dancing, excessive drinking, or music blaring past permitted hours.
“Last year, we saw several issues, including noise complaints and operators violating closing hours.
“This year, all music will stop by 1am sharp, and stricter penalties will be imposed for any breaches,” he told a press conference, Thursday.
Traditional houses are expected to uphold cultural authenticity and only serve traditional foods and drinks.
He said operators caught selling non-traditional alcoholic beverages or remaining open beyond permitted hours risk being compounded up to RM1,000.
“Last year, six houses were fined for such violations… We want the celebration to reflect our rich culture, not over-indulgence,” he stressed.
KDCA also reduced stall rental fees this year, with rates starting as low as RM2,500 compared to RM7,000 last year in a move to promote broader participation and economic inclusivity.
The issue of overpriced food items has been publicly criticised for years, with regular allegations of monopoly through subleasing stall lots.
Multiple viral videos showing the consequences of excessive drinking at the fairgrounds have become the subject of ridicule by certain quarters, ironically dubbed the “spirit” of the KDMR.
Jeffrey hopes the event will attract not just local visitors but also investors who see potential in Sabah’s culture and biodiversity.
Festival highlights include the rebranding of the iconic Mr Kaamatan competition to Buvazoi Tavantang Kaamatan, increased inter-state participation and continued collaboration with international partners like the Food and Culture Organisation and International Union for Conservation of Nature.
On top of the cultural celebration, programmes such as Seed Spirit Revival linked to global biodiversity and food security initiatives will also take centre stage.
The national-level opening ceremony will be officiated by the Prime Minister on May 30, and the closing by the Head of State the day after.
