KOTA KINABALU: Obinna Daniel Otigil, a finalist of African-Dusun heritage competing in the Randawi Tavantang Kaamatan (RTK) Kota Kinabalu, said he is proudly Sabahan despite his distinctive background.
RTK is a Sabah cultural male pageant that promotes the uniqueness of the culture, customs and traditional attire of the Kadazan Dusun Murut Rungus (KDMR) community, while also selecting a titleholder who embodies knowledge and leadership.
Born and raised in Apin-Apin, Keningau, with his two brothers, the 25-year-old said his upbringing in Sabah has been central in shaping his identity, values and appreciation for culture and community.
Standing at 183cm, Obinna said his journey into the competition began unexpectedly.
What started as a light-hearted TikTok moment soon evolved into something more meaningful after he discovered that his mother, Francisca Romana Frederick, had placed in the top three of the Unduk Ngadau state-level competition in the 1990s.
"From that point on, this became about honouring her legacy and continuing what she started," said Obinna, who holds a degree in International Relations from Universiti Malaysia Sabah and works as a sales ambassador.
He added that the competition has given him a broader purpose.
"I hope to represent individuals of mixed heritage who may sometimes feel uncertain about where they belong. It is important to show that we can embrace every part of who we are with confidence, while staying connected to our roots and culture," he said.
Obinna said preparing for the competition has required him to immerse himself in KDMR traditions, particularly language and traditional attire, which he described as the most challenging aspect.
"While I do speak Sabahan slang to connect more naturally with people around me, going deeper into the KDMR language has been new and sometimes overwhelming," said Obinna, who spends his free time playing football and swimming to stay active and maintain balance.
He credited his mentors, House of Deanry founders Aldean Aj and Gary, for guiding him throughout the journey, alongside his mother, who remains his strongest source of inspiration.
Addressing perceptions of his appearance, Obinna said he respects differing views but remains grounded in his identity.
"I see criticism as part of growth and learning. What matters most is how I carry myself and stay grounded in who I am. I accept myself fully, and that gives me the confidence to keep moving forward. I may look different, but I am proudly Sabahan," he said.
"At the same time, I am grateful that most of the feedback I have received has been positive and supportive."
If he wins, Obinna said the achievement would carry meaning beyond personal success.
"It would represent families of mixed heritage and reflect the inclusivity Sabah is known for. I want to show that our differences can be a strength.
"I hope to use the platform to bring people closer together, encouraging unity while celebrating the spirit of Kaamatan," he said, adding that he often shares Sabah's scenic locations on his TikTok account.
The grand final of the RTK Kota Kinabalu will take place tomorrow (May 3) at a shopping mall here.
The male cultural pageant was first held on a small scale in 2008 and has been recognised as one of the official events for the state's Kaamatan Festival since 2021. - NST
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