By JAMES LEONG
RANAU: The Kundasang community has been urged to uphold unity and wisdom in electing leaders during the upcoming State Election (PRN) to ensure the continuity of development agendas, particularly in the Ulu Sugut region.
Kundasang Community Development Leader (PPM) Dounis Sani issued the call while representing Deputy Chief Minister II and Kundasang State Assemblyman Datuk Seri Dr. Joachim Gunsalam at the opening of the second edition of the SUTATI Ethnic Festival (Sungai, Talantang, and Tinagas), held vibrantly in Ulu Sugut on May 3.
“I am thrilled by this year’s SUTATI Festival and am optimistic that future editions will receive additional funding to expand activities and participation, especially among locals and domestic tourists. This includes marquee events like the 6th Ulu Sugut Offroad Challenge,” he said.
Dounis emphasized that such cultural festivals align with the State Government’s commitment to empowering ethnic associations in preserving language, traditions, and heritage for younger generations.
He highlighted the advantage of having a local representative who also holds roles as Deputy Chief Minister and a full minister, enabling smoother allocation of resources.
“This not only facilitates events like this festival but also unlocks broader developmental opportunities for Kundasang,” he added.
He stressed that community solidarity and consensus are crucial to ensuring seamless event organization and driving positive social and economic impacts, particularly for the SUTATI ethnic communities. “Initiatives like these also boost local economies and position Ulu Sugut, Ranau, as a promising new tourism destination,” he said.
The festival and offroad challenge received robust support from various stakeholders, reflecting collaborative efforts to elevate local culture. Deputy President II of the Sabah Tinagas Association cum Ulu Sugut Ranau Sports and Recreation Club chairman, Jaminus Agang, who is also organizing chairman, expressed gratitude to all contributors.
“Special thanks to Datuk Seri Dr. Joachim Gunsalam, the festival’s chief contributor and principal advisor, whose role was pivotal to this edition’s success,” he said. Jaminus also acknowledged Ranau District Officer Tinus Manggam for ensuring the event’s smooth execution.
The festival featured cultural performances, exhibitions, traditional sports, water activities, the Sugandoi SUTATI competition, a SUTATI concert, and the inaugural ‘Masaan’ SUTATI night. The latter showcased ethnic maidens in a pageant-style display, highlighting traditional beauty and customs.
For the first time, the Tokoh SUTATI Award was introduced to honour individuals preserving ethnic heritage. Recipients included Haji Din Solinggong @ Lubin (Tinagas), Jimin Kidot (Talantang), and Ghani Tahir (Orang Sungai).
Meanwhile, the 6th Ulu Sugut Offroad Challenge 2025 drew 27 participants from across the state, emphasizing extreme sports and youth resilience.
Jaminus expressed hope for the festival’s continued growth with increased state and local leadership support.
“With Kundasang’s Assemblyman serving as Deputy Chief Minister, I am confident this festival will thrive, especially if he retains support in the upcoming PRN,” he said.
He also called on SUTATI ethnic leaders and associations to collaborate in safeguarding Sabah’s cultural legacy.
