RANAU: Sabah’s Dusun Labuk traditional attire made its way to the 3,726-metre summit of Mount Rinjani in Indonesia when Sabahan climber Jack Arrey Jaim wore the cultural dress at the peak as a symbol of pride in his heritage.
Jack said bringing the attire to one of Indonesia’s highest mountains was his way of introducing Sabah’s cultural identity beyond the State’s borders while reminding younger generations of the importance of preserving their heritage.
“Traditional attire is not merely clothing. It carries history, culture, identity and a precious heritage,” he said.
He said wearing the Dusun Labuk attire at the summit was particularly meaningful as it allowed a piece of Sabah’s heritage to be showcased in another country.
“I am always proud to wear Sabah traditional attire wherever I go. It becomes even more meaningful when I can introduce and bring Sabah’s cultural identity all the way to Mount Rinjani,” he said.
Jack was part of a three-day expedition to Mount Rinjani from Aug 27 to 29 involving 22 climbers — 21 from Sabah and one from Peninsular Malaysia.
The expedition culminated with the group reaching the mountain’s summit, where Jack also marked Malaysia’s National Day and Sabah Day with the Jalur Gemilang.
He hoped his gesture would encourage greater appreciation for Sabah’s traditional attire and inspire others to continue preserving and promoting their respective cultural heritage.
According to Jack, taking Sabah’s traditional attire to places outside the State may appear to be a small gesture, but it could help expose its cultural uniqueness to a wider audience.
He said such efforts were also important in ensuring traditional attire remains appreciated and is passed down to future generations.
“Proud to be a Sabahan, and proud to carry our heritage wherever we go,” he said.