Tenom: Former Sabah Chief Minister Tan Sri Bernard Giluk Dompok was honoured as the Outstanding Indigenous Leader 2025 during the World Indigenous Peoples Day celebration organised by Momogun National Congress (MNC) at the Murut Cultural Centre, here, Saturday.
The top award was presented by Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick, who attended as the ceremony’s guest of honour.
Speaking after presenting the award, Ewon said the recognition given to Bernard and other leaders proves that the contributions and sacrifices of indigenous communities in preserving customs, language and culture are always valued.
“These figures inspire younger generations to continue defending cultural identity while participating in national development. Indigenous peoples are not only custodians of tradition but important contributors to Sabah and Malaysia’s socioeconomic progress,” he said.
Bernard’s award recognises his distinguished service as Sabah Chief Minister, Federal Minister, Malaysia’s Ambassador to the Vatican and President of the MNC.
Eleven other leaders also received recognition, including cultural association presidents and community leaders from various ethnic groups across Sabah.
The 2025 World Indigenous Peoples Day celebration featured cultural performances, traditional dances, handicraft exhibitions, community forums and the launch of unity-building programmes through culture, jointly organised by the Ministry of National Unity, Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development and the State Cultural Board with Tenom District Office’s cooperation.
Community leaders, non-governmental organisations’ representatives, grassroots leaders and locals attended the ceremony, celebrating the contributions of Sabah and Labuan’s indigenous figures.