Kota Kinabalu: Asia’s largest integrated bereavement care provider, Nirvana Memorial Park in Tuaran, is considering developing another exclusive premium-class Bumiputera memorial zone in Sabah following the strong response to its Langadon Memorial Zone.
Nirvana Memorial Park Marketing Manager Leon Pui said the proposed development is being studied in response to encouraging demand for the Langadon Memorial Zone, the first dedicated indigenous memorial section in Malaysia designed specifically for Christian Bumiputera families.
He said the initiative reflects the company’s appreciation for the continued trust and support shown by Sabah’s native community.
“We are encouraged by the overwhelming response received since the introduction of the Langadon Memorial Zone. Many Bumiputera families have taken the opportunity to make early memorial planning arrangements for their loved ones.
“In view of this positive market response, the company is now considering developing another exclusive premium-class Bumiputera memorial zone in the future,” he said.
Leon was speaking at the third edition of Nirvana Memorial Park’s Kids Kaamatan Pageant, “The Little Precious 2025”, held recently at ITCC Mall, Penampang.
The event was officiated by Senator and Sabah DAP Chairman Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe.
Pui said the Langadon Memorial Zone was introduced in 2021 as part of the company’s commitment to embracing Sabah’s multicultural society while respecting the traditions of its native communities.
“Langadon, derived from the Kadazan-Dusun phrase ‘La nga don oku dika’, means ‘I Miss You’, reflecting our efforts to provide memorial services that are culturally meaningful to the local community,” he said.
He added that Nirvana has consistently promoted inclusivity and cultural diversity while supporting Sabah’s social development through community initiatives.
Describing the pageant as more than a children’s beauty contest, Pui said it served as a platform to celebrate the Kaamatan Festival, build self-confidence among young participants and encourage the preservation of Sabah’s rich multicultural traditions.
He congratulated all contestants, saying every participant was already a winner for having the courage to perform on stage.
“Regardless of the final results, taking the first step to stand before an audience and express yourself is already an achievement to be proud of,” he said.
Pui also called on the public to continue preserving Sabah’s cultural heritage and to instil the values of unity, mutual respect and harmony among the younger generation.
He said the pageant, now in its third year, forms part of Nirvana’s community engagement efforts to strengthen ties with customers and the public while promoting the Langadon Memorial Zone to the non-Muslim Bumiputera community.
The competition featured two categories: Category A for girls aged five to eight and Category B for those aged nine to 12.
In Category A, Cayla Lovela Cliff was crowned champion, winning RM500 cash, a bouquet and a trophy. Catharina Atiza Teo finished as first runner-up, receiving RM300 cash and a trophy, while Adela Adena Molius was second runner-up, taking home RM150 cash and a trophy.
In Category B, Aesya Mashieya Binti Noor Azlan emerged champion, winning RM500 cash, a bouquet and a trophy. Scherrlycka Amberlycja Severinus was first runner-up, receiving RM300 cash and a trophy, while Janice Asella Jasper placed second runner-up and won RM200 cash and a trophy.
