KENINGAU: The presence of Parti Warisan President, Shafie Apdal, at the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 Keningau District Kaamatan Festival today attracted widespread attention and further enlivened the celebration filled with Sabah’s rich traditions and culture.
He attended the event at the invitation of Jeffrey Kitingan to celebrate Kaamatan together with the multiracial community at the Keningau Community Hall.
In his speech, Jeffrey said the attendance of the former Sabah Chief Minister reflected the spirit of unity that must continue to be strengthened among people of different races and backgrounds in the state.
“The presence of former Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Shafie Apdal is to reflect national unity,” he said during the officiating ceremony.
In a post shared on his official Facebook page, Shafie expressed appreciation to Jeffrey for the invitation to attend the celebration.
According to him, Kaamatan has always been a space for the people of Sabah to gather, reconnect with old friends, and celebrate cultures and traditions that unite people regardless of background.
“The atmosphere was very friendly and lively. Kotobian Tadau Tagayo Do Kaamatan,” he said.
The Opening Ceremony of the 2026 Keningau District Kaamatan Festival, held on Sunday, was also enlivened with various cultural events and traditional competitions including the Sugandoi Kaamatan Grand Finale, Randawi Tavantang Kaamatan, Sodop Unduk Ngadau, Gong Performance, and Contemporary Traditional Dance Competition.
In addition, visitors had the opportunity to participate in traditional Kaamatan games, visit government agency exhibitions, and explore the Sales Carnival featuring various local products, handicrafts, and traditional food.
The celebration once again proved the strong spirit of unity and harmony among the people of Sabah in embracing the diversity of cultures and heritage of the state’s multiracial communities.
Harvesting Unity, Celebrating Harmony
