SOOK: Sook Assemblyman Datuk Ellron Angin has expressed concern over the declining use of mother tongues among younger generations, particularly within the Kadazan, Dusun, Murut, and Rungus (KDMR) communities.
Speaking at the launch of the Kaamatan Festival for Mukim Sook (A) at the community hall here on Friday, Ellron, who is also Sabah’s Minister of Youth and Sports, underscored the importance of preserving native tongues as a vital part of cultural identity.
He said that, as a native of the district, he is very concerned and attentive to ensuring efforts are made to preserve the use of the mother tongue as the daily spoken language among families.
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');});“Language is the cornerstone of identity and heritage. When we lose our language, we lose our cultural roots and sense of self,” he said.
Ellron said that families play a critical role in keeping indigenous languages alive through daily conversation at home.
He called for greater awareness among the younger generation, urging them to appreciate, embrace, and uphold the customs, traditions, and values that have long shaped the KDMR community.
At the same time, Ellron voiced strong support for the Sabah Native Court’s initiatives to safeguard cultural heritage through targeted programmes.
He said such efforts are not only vital in preserving valuable traditions but also in strengthening social cohesion and setting a sustainable cultural direction for future generations.
Commenting on this year’s Kaamatan theme, “Kaamatan for All”, Ellron said that celebrating the harvest festival at the mukim level enables grassroots communities to take part in the festivities, fostering pride in local culture and promoting unity across ethnic and social lines.
“This celebration serves as a platform to strengthen bonds, nurture pride in our traditions, and deepen goodwill among people from all walks of life,” he said.
Ellron also extended his heartfelt appreciation to all who contributed to the success of this year’s Kaamatan festival in Mukim Sook (A).
“The level of dedication and community spirit shown is truly commendable. It reflects the strength of unity within our society,” he added.
Also present were Political Secretary to the Minister of Youth and Sports Sabah, Jreneus Pagut, Sook District Chief Lanusag Etap @ Raipol and Community Development Leader (PPM) for Sook Tony Talasoi.
