KOTA KINABALU – The Sabah harvest festival celebrations, or Tadau Kaamatan, will be broadcast online this year.
Deputy Chief Minister II Datuk Seri Jeffrey Kitingan said this is in view of the Covid-19 threat.
The Kadazandusun Murut Cultural Association committee has chosen “Borderless Kaamatan for Reconciliation and Peace” as this year’s theme.
“We felt that this theme is appropriate for this year, after so many things that happened especially because of Covid-19,” said Jeffrey in a statement.
The Kadazandusun Cultural Association deputy president said the opening and closing ceremonies will be broadcast from Hongkod Koisaan in Penampang.
All districts will hold their own celebrations, which must adhere to health and safety standard operating procedures.
“Then again, there is a possibility that the situation may change in May, enabling us to hold the festival both online and offline, and people can join physically,” said Jeffrey.
Kaamatan is celebrated annually in Sabah for the whole month of May, ending with a public holiday on a date selected by the priestess known as “bobohizan”.
In conjunction with the celebrations this year, the Sugandoi and Hiis singing competition and Unduk Ngadau beauty pageant will be held online.
Jeffrey said, however, the focus will be on the cultural aspects of the festival.
“Since we are going global, this is our opportunity to really show our culture to the world.
“It is going to be a fully digital celebration, and we must be careful with what we want to show and project to the world.
“There are many benefits to this. We can take this opportunity to promote our culture, our tourism, investment, as well as trade prospects, education, technology, and at the same time, promote peace.
“We have to create the best impression of our culture, all of our culture. So, we need to discuss how and what to share with our global audience.”
He said Malaysians, especially Sabahans, remain the priority and main spectators, and expressed hope that TV stations will broadcast the programme in full, as many in the state do not have reliable internet connection. – The Vibes, February 18, 2021
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