PENAMPANG - FOR many, it is all about the Unduk Ngadau at the Hongkod Koisaan building, where the two-day state-level Pesta Kaamatan is being held, beginning today.
The native communities will be looking out for the rice harvest festival beauty pageant, to see who will be picked from a lineup of district level winners from all over Sabah tomorrow.
Former winner Mandy Nandu, 28, said Pesta Kaamatan would not be complete without the crowning of the Unduk Ngadau, as it symbolised the legend of Huminodun, a young maiden who was sacrificed by her father, Kinoingan, the creator, for the betterment of the people.
"The legend tells a noble tale, one that is told during the rice harvest season for people to emulate her selfless deed," said the 2005 winner, who also participated in Miss Sabah Malaysia World 2007, Miss Malaysia World 2007, Miss Malaysia Model of the World 2009 and Miss Earth International 2009.
"The Unduk Ngadau is different than other beauty pageants, as it represents Sabah's rich heritage," said Mandy, who now runs her own modeling and event management company.
Imelda Victor Kolis, 41, said the Unduk Ngadau carried a strong message for the native communities to hold on to their rich traditions while living in the modern world.
"After being 'pushed on stage' to join the contest as a 15-year-old girl in 1988, the pageant helped shape me to be who I am today, a strong, humble and confident individual," said Imelda, who also runs a modeling and event management agency.
Imelda won the Tanjung Aru Unduk Ngadau title in 1998 and qualified for the state level finals, where she finished second.
"This contest allows us to represent the spirit of the Huminodun legend," she said. -NST
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.