PENAMPANG: She once stumbled in the pursuit of the crown, but Atitih Yati Robert stood taller this year, rising with grace to be named State Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan 2025.
Atitih, representing Tamparuli, emerged victorious over 50 finalists at the grand finale of the State Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan (UNK) 2025 held at the KDCA Hall here on Saturday.
The 26-year-old took home RM17,500 in cash, a tiara, a fully-beaded sash, a trophy, and other sponsored prizes, in a celebration of heritage, beauty, and cultural pride that drew thousands.
window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []};googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.defineSlot('/22826383987/dailyexpress_inline', [1, 1], 'gpt-passback').addService(googletag.pubads());googletag.enableServices();googletag.display('gpt-passback');});Tambunan’s Elka Alika Pijeh was named first runner-up, receiving RM13,000, a trophy, and sponsored prizes, while Celarin Jenny (Kiulu) took third place with RM10,500 and other prizes.
The event marked one of the major highlights of the State-level Kaamatan Festival, which culminates with cultural showcases and pageantry.
“I first joined eight years ago when I was 18, representing Kota Marudu,” said Atitih, who hails from Kota Marudu but chose to compete in Tuaran district-level competition this year, and represented Tamparuli, due to her paternal roots.
She revealed that her return was deeply personal: “This victory is significant, not just for me but for all who have supported me – especially those who were disappointed eight years ago.”
Back in 2017, Atitih had won the Miss Popular Facebook title, yet did not make it to the Top 7, a result that left many of her supporters disheartened.
“Some even encouraged me to make a comeback.
“They wanted to see me return to the stage, and I carried that spirit with me since then.”
Atitih, a graduate of Malay Language Education, recently passed her Education Ministry interview and is awaiting placement to become a teacher.
“This year, I was determined to give my best.
“When I accepted to rejoin the pageant, I devoted myself fully to the process, knowing I had a purpose to fulfil.”
Describing her toughest challenge, Atitih said it was managing her weight: “I used to weigh 70kg and lost almost 10kg in five months – it was a struggle, especially because I love sweets and chocolates.
“I fasted, exercised, and changed my diet.
“There were days I nearly fainted just standing up because I had to reduce my food intake so drastically,” she said.
Beyond the physical transformation, Atitih said the past eight years were also spent improving her communication skills and overcoming shyness.
“I was very shy before – still am – but I practised a lot.
“Now I can manage it better because of the confidence I’ve built over time,” she said.
During the final, Atitih wore a traditional costume from Tenghilan called Pinialap, marking the first-time appearance of the attire on the UNK stage.
“My manager suggested I wear it and supported my comeback. He helped me from head to toe.”
Atitih also shared a personal glimpse into her family life, revealing she comes from a large household: “I have 15 siblings.”
As the new Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan, Atitih is expected to serve as a cultural ambassador and participate in various engagements under upcoming contracts.
“For now, I am fully committing myself to this role.
“I came back with intention, with heart, and with the hope of honouring those who believed in me," she said.
