KOTA KINABALU – Huguan Siou Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan has suggested that May be made Ethnic Language Month.
The Kadazandusun Murut paramount leader said that while Bahasa Malaysia is the national language, it is important that Malaysians treasure other languages that have been passed down for generations, such as the Kadazandusun and Murut (KDM) dialects.
“This will remind us that Sabah has a plural community, with different dialects, cultures, and traditions. I suggest that in the month of May, we promote the use of local dialects in the state.
“Through these communication tools (dialects), we will be able to promote our native languages and create togetherness and understanding among one another.
“We should be reminded that we are a multiracial state with a lot of languages, so let us develop whatever local languages that we have in Sabah.”
Pairin was speaking at the launch of the state’s Kaamatan Festival 2022 at the Sabah Handicraft Centre in Keningau today.
He also suggested that the government create a cultural village in Keningau, as the district is rich in KDM culture and traditions.
“The idea is that Keningau emulates the cultural village in Sarawak. The idea was once approved by our former prime minister (Datuk Seri Najib Razak), but it has yet to be implemented.
“I hope that the current government will consider it, as it will create a lot of job opportunities for the locals.”
Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Jeffrey Kitingan backed Pairin’s suggestions.
Jeffrey, who is also the Kaamatan main committee chairman, said Keningau is chosen as the launch venue for several reasons, including that the festival started in the district, and the Keningau Oath Stone and the Sabah Handicraft Centre are here.
The theme this year is Kaamatan Ensouls Nature, which aims to promote the preservation of nature from climate change, preservation of padi and fruit species, and rewarding farmers’ productivity in line with Sabah Maju Jaya.
Also in attendance was Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Md Noor.
The peak of the celebration will be held in Hongkod Koisaan, Penampang on May 30 and 31, and it will see the resumption of in-person celebrations after two years. – The Vibes, May 1, 2022
