105th Rundum Rebellion to be relived in April

Kemabong assemblyman Jamawi Jaafar said many, especially the youngsters, did not remember the historical event which had happened in 1915. -NSTP/File pic
By Olivia Miwil - February 3, 2020 @ 3:06pm

TENOM: A newly developed rural tourism at Rundum Highland here will become the venue for the commemoration of 105th Rundum Rebellion on April 19.

Kemabong assemblyman Jamawi Jaafar said many, especially the youngsters, did not remember the historical event which had happened in 1915.

“By commemorating the event, the story and fighting spirit of a local Murut Ontoros Buyusan or “Antenom” can be relived.

“It will also remind us of the heroism and fighting spirit of Antenom in defending his Murut people from being bullied by the English people at that time,” he said in a statement.

Jamawi added although in those times, the English had labelled Antenom as a rebel, he was seen as a fighter.

The local hero had gone against the people of the North Borneo Chartered Company (NBCC) who had imposed taxes on the Murut community.

“The NBCC’s act to arrest those who failed to pay taxes had fuelled Antenom’s anger.

“Antenom viewed such a move as unacceptable taking into consideration that the people were self-sufficient and collected forest products,” he said.

Jamawi said during the commemoration there will be cultural performances and historical exhibition about Antenom, among others.

“What is important is to allow the public to see the remnants of history such as the fort, the English’s horse trails and the beauty of flora and fauna here.

"Other activities include Rundum Adventure Challenge on Sept 12 and 13 that will begin from Kemabong to the peak of Rundum highlands,” he said.