Covid-19: Last year Sabah’s Unduk Ngadau to hold the title for more than a year.

Francisca Ester Nain (center) who represented Karambunai, took over the role of the legendary figure Huminodun from former unduk ngadau Hosiani Jaimis.NSTP/MALAI ROSMAH TUAH

By Olivia Miwil
olivia@nst.com.my

KOTA KINABALU: For the first time in about six decades, Francisca Ester Nain will be holding the “Unduk Ngadau” title for more than a year.

The 26-year-old lass, who represented Karambunai, crowned over the role of the legendary figure Huminudon during the culmination of state-level Kaamatan or harvest festival on May 31 last year.

Huminudon is a maiden who was sacrificed by her father, Kinoingan, to save the people from famine to bring about a bountiful harvest.

Kadazandusun Cultural Association Women council chairperson Joanna Kitingan said that the committee members had also agreed not to have the cultural celebration due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“It includes the Unduk Ngadau pageant as it is inappropriate to have it based on the current situation which not only affects Sabah but throughout the whole world.

“Therefore, in the history of about 60 years of Unduk Ngadau pageant, she (Francisca) will be the first to hold the title until the next round of the contest,” she told the New Straits Times.

During this time in previous years, committee members would have started to be busy with some areas had begun to look for the fairest women to represent districts to compete at the state-level.

Joanna, who had been the chairperson for Unduk Ngadau Committee chairperson for many years, also added that there were suggestions to continue the celebration through other means including via an online platform.

“The Huminudon spirit will continue regardless of whether the celebration will be held or not.

“It is more important for all of us to help out others who are affected by Covid-19 either through the fund originally meant for the celebration or through personal contributions.”