KOTA KINABALU: The story of Saudin Labutau’s courage who was the first Murut to
step foot in New York in 1936 should be an inspiration to all, especially the younger
generation. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor said Saudin’s story who
overcame many challenges to travel from the Borneo jungle and made it all the way to
New York some 86 years ago was fascinating.
Hailing from Kampung Ambual, Keningau, Saudin at the age of 26 made the journey
after he was recruited by renowned American documentary filmmaker couple Martin
and Osa Johnson.
“Despite not having a basic education, he was someone not easily intimidated. He was
brave and like challenges.
“Although his job was to take care of an orangutan named Abai in New York we could
not imagine all the obstacles that Saudin must have gone through living in an alien
world so far away from his families.
“Yet, he persevered. I was so touched,” said Hajiji at the launch of the “Saudin The
Orangutan Whisperer” documentary and “The Murut Journey to New York – 1936” exhibition at the Azman Hashim Gallery and Sekafi Auditorium in Universiti Malaysia
Sabah (UMS) today.
The Chief Minister said he did not hesitate to give his full support after seeing a
preview of the documentary by the producer and descendants of Saudin who came to
see him last month. Saudin passed away in 1986.
“This is Saudin’s legacy, not just for his children but his bravery should be emulated by
all our youths. Always be brave with a heart of steel when facing challenges and never
stop learning,” he said.
The Chief Minister commended Rye Production Sdn Bhd and those involved in the
production of the documentary that will also be aired on the History Channel Asia.
“This is priceless because not only it depicts Saudin’s life journey but also draws
attention to the unique image of Borneo that has made Sabah a tourist destination,” he
said. -pr/BNN
