KENINGAU: A Murut Tahol Traditional Songs Preservation Committee has been established to strengthen efforts to preserve, document and promote Murut Tahol traditional songs, ensuring the cultural heritage is passed on to future generations.
The committee was formed during a meeting at the Keningau Native Court (Mahkamah Anak Negeri) meeting room, recently.
Biou Suyan was elected chairman, while Phillip and Ulin Datuk Pamiang were appointed deputy chairpersons. Ariffin Antikoh was appointed secretary, assisted by Marutin Ansiung as assistant secretary, while Zulfikar U Yusof was named treasurer.
Several bureaus were also established to support the committee’s work, comprising the Information Bureau headed by Nikah Andy Anthony, the Preservation Bureau led by Rosdi Bambangan, the Recording Bureau headed by Hendry Pangal, and the Documentation Bureau headed by Ariffin Antikoh.
Committee members are Mohd Ridhwan Angayas, Atar Andipoh, Zakaria M. Laminit, Emot Kandau, Rizalmi Liman, Baalon Languan and Rusip Andunga.
In his speech, Biou urged all committee members to work together and carry out their responsibilities with commitment to ensure the committee achieves its objectives.
He also encouraged members to explain the purpose of the committee to the wider community so that efforts to preserve Murut Tahol traditional songs would receive broad support and participation.
According to Biou, preserving cultural heritage requires not only the committee’s commitment but also the cooperation of the community to ensure the artistic and cultural treasures of the Murut Tahol people continue to thrive and be appreciated by future generations.
