Sabahans have been urged not to politicise ethnic identities or introduce new terms that could undermine the state’s long-standing unity, with Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam calling for continued solidarity under the spirit of the Kaamatan Festival.
Joachim said efforts by certain parties to separate existing ethnic identities through new terminology risk weakening the strong social cohesion that has long characterised Sabah’s multicultural society.
The chairman of the State-Level Kaamatan Festival Celebration Main Committee 2026 said the Kadazan, Dusun, Murut and Rungus (KDMR) identity should remain a strong collective entity representing the state’s indigenous communities rather than being replaced by new terms such as “Momogun”.
“As an elder, I advise our younger generation not to divide the Kadazan, Dusun, Murut and Rungus identity, which should remain strong as a single entity. Instead, let us use Kaamatan as a platform to strengthen our unity,” he said.
The remarks were made in response to claims circulating on social media that the Kaamatan Festival is celebrated exclusively by the KDMR communities, as well as calls to replace the KDMR designation with “Momogun” to better reflect inclusivity among Sabahans.
Joachim said attempts to separate ethnic identities would only weaken grassroots solidarity among Sabah’s people.
He noted that more than 30 indigenous ethnic groups in Sabah share deep cultural roots that transcend geographical boundaries and differing perspectives.
Citing the widespread use of the traditional gong across various sub-ethnic groups, Joachim said the shared cultural heritage demonstrates a common ancestry despite minor regional differences in musical styles and traditions.
He called on community leaders and cultural activists to maintain constructive narratives and avoid allowing new terminology to create divisions among Sabah’s diverse communities.
According to Joachim, the primary objective of the annual Kaamatan Festival is to showcase Sabah’s united, dynamic and harmonious cultural identity to the world.
He said promoting a united cultural heritage would also enhance Sabah’s reputation as a cultural tourism destination known for its rich ethnic diversity.
“Our goal is to show the world that Sabah’s ethnic diversity is not a weakness but an extraordinary strength when we unite under one cultural umbrella,” he said.
Joachim also urged young people not to be influenced by dual identities deliberately created to sow division, but instead to take pride in preserving their ancestral heritage.
He said a mature understanding of culture would help sustain Sabah’s social harmony and support the state’s progress towards a more prosperous future.
The spirit of brotherhood displayed during the harvest festival, he added, should serve as a lasting guide in preserving stability and security for future generations.
