PENAMPANG: Tommy Gedeus who represented KDCA Putrajaya defeated 45 other finalists to emerge champion at the 2023 State Mr Kaamatan (Buvazoi Tavantang) competition at Hongkod Koisaan KDCA, here, on Monday.
The 27-year-old tour guide brought home prizes worth RM61,260, including RM6,000 cash, a specially-made “sigah” worth RM2,500, scholarships and other sponsored items.
In second place was Deaigo Emanuell (KDCA Penang), while Lexterinus Harris (KDCA Klang Valley) clinched the third spot.
Deaigo and Lexterinus received prizes worth RM47,000 and RM32,580, respectively.
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“I believe all of us, the finalists, share a fair chance of winning the title,” he said after the prize-giving ceremony.
He said he joined the competition not merely to win but to promote eco-tourism in the State, such as the interesting spots in his hometown in Papar.
“In my village, Kampung Bolotikon, I can see many potential spots that can be turned into eco-tourism spots.
“This title will also be a good stepping stone for me to go further and work with non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and other interested parties,” he said.
He also thanked his family and friends who had been lending their endless support in the competition.
This year’s State Mr Kaamatan marked a milestone in the event’s 16-year history as it was held for the first time at the Hongkod Koisaan KDCA.
The male cultural pageant was first held in 2008 on a small scale and in 2018, Mr Kaamatan was registered as a brand with the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO).
In 2017, the pageant’s concept and implementation were improved with the formation of new committee members, the selection of new venues and fringe events, and a new judging system.
In 2021, Mr Kaamatan was recognised as one of the official events for the State Kaamatan Festival, and LKNS acts as the event’s implementation coordinator.
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