Behave during Kaamatan celebrations or pay compensation, visitors advised

KOTA KINABALU: Visitors to the Kaamatan festival have been warned to behave, or be subject to “sogit” (traditional compensation).

Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA) deputy president Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan said sogit, whether in cash or in kind, will be enforced on those who misbehave, regardless of whether they are local or foreigners.

“We received numerous reports of misbehaviour at (past) festivals, from fights to indecent acts.

“We aim to curb this trend because such conduct tarnishes the traditional event’s reputation,” he said during a press conference on Friday (April 26).

The official launch of the Tadau Kaamatan (Harvest Festival) by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor will be held at the Ranau Community Hall on Wednesday (May 1).

Kitingan, the Deputy Chief Minister and state Kaamatan festival organising chairman, said advisories on the dos and don’ts will be placed at all event areas and those breaching the rules would be brought before the Native Court.

Traditionally, sogit involves blood penalties (slaughtering of an animal such as a chicken, pig or buffalo, depending on the severity of the offence) based on the Native Courts Enactment of 1995.

However, the court may also order that any penalty or compensation be paid in cash.

“While we understand that people just want to have fun, please do so responsibly,” Kitingan said.

Kaamatan, one of Sabah’s biggest traditional festivals, is a celebration of the ethnic Kadazandusun, Murut and Runggus communities which will be held across the state throughout the month of May, before culminating with the state-level celebration on May 30 and 31.

Kitingan said this year’s theme “Kaamatan Beyond Food Security” is apt because there is more to the celebration, traditionally held to express thanks for a good harvest.

“Food security is important, but the celebration is also about promoting closer ties between friends and family, regardless of your cultural or religious background,” he said.

He added that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had “responded positively” to his invitation to the Kaamatan closing ceremony on May 31, which is also expected to be graced by Sabah Head of State Tun Juhar Mahiruddin and his wife Toh Puan Norlidah RM Jasni, as well as Hajiji.