PENAMPANG: The joint celebration of Lamai Kaamatan 2026 organised by six Village Development and Security Committees (JKKK), Village Chiefs, and the Coordinating Committee of Six Villages is expected to be one of the largest community events in Penampang this year.
The event, which involves Kampung Kuai, Kampung Kandazon-Botung, Kampung Mahandoi, Kampung Babah-Bunduon, Kampung Nambazan, and Kampung Ramayah, will be held at Monsopiad Heritage Village on 5, 9, 10, and 11 July 2026, with a variety of exciting programmes and activities prepared for visitors.
Organising Chairperson Billy Jinawat said the event was the result of close collaboration among the six JKKK, Village Chiefs, and all members of the organising committee who are committed to ensuring the success of this community-level Kaamatan celebration.
According to him, Lamai Kaamatan 2026 aims not only to celebrate the harvest festival and the cultural heritage of the Kadazandusun community but also to serve as a platform to strengthen unity, foster a spirit of mutual cooperation, and promote local cultural uniqueness to the younger generation and visitors.
A range of engaging activities has been planned throughout the event, including traditional sports on 5 July, the Sugandoi singing competition on 9 July, the Unduk Ngadau rehearsal on 10 July, and the main Lamai Kaamatan event on 11 July 2026.
The climax event on 11 July 2026 is expected to be officiated by Datuk Ewon Benedick, Deputy Chief Minister III of Sabah who is also Minister of Industrial Development, Entrepreneurship and Transportation of Sabah, and Member of Parliament for P.174 Penampang.
Also expected to attend and enliven the event are Datuk Donald Peter Mojuntin, State Assemblyman for N.25 Moyog, and Puan Noemi Dyena Johntren, President of the Penampang Municipal Council (MPP).
The organisers hope that Lamai Kaamatan 2026 will serve as a platform to unite communities from various backgrounds, strengthen bonds of friendship, and foster a sense of togetherness among the residents of the six participating villages.
This year’s celebration carries the theme “Kaamatan Mongomot Pisompuuvan, Mamalamai Piunungan”, reflecting the spirit of unity, harmony, and appreciation for the cultural heritage inherited from generation to generation.
The public is warmly invited to join in celebrating Lamai Kaamatan 2026 with their families and friends at Monsopiad Heritage Village, Penampang.-BNN
