Kaamatan Activities 2026: Sumazau, Sugandoi & More

What events happen during Kaamatan?

Kaamatan is not a single weekend. It is celebrated throughout May, with the highlight celebrations held each year on 30 and 31 May (Bernama, checked 7 October 2026). In 2026 the festival was launched in Papar on 1 May (Bernama, checked 7 October 2026), and the peak celebrations took place at Hongkod Koisaan, the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) complex in Penampang (Bernama, checked 7 October 2026).

District and village celebrations: KDCA organises and supports Kaamatan celebrations at village, district and state levels (KDCA, checked 7 October 2026). Dates change every year and we could not find an official list, so check with KDCA or the district office. These are community-level events, smaller than the state celebration, and Unduk Ngadau finalists represent their districts and KDCA branches (Bernama, checked 7 October 2026). If you're staying in a specific district, you can experience genuine community celebration by timing your visit to that district's dates.

State-level celebration at KDCA (30–31 May): This is the main event. Sabah Tourism lists the Sugandoi competition and the crowning of Unduk Ngadau as the highlights (Sabah Tourism Board, checked 7 October 2026). In 2026 the Prime Minister was scheduled to officiate on 30 May and take part in a symbolic paddy harvesting ceremony, the Yang Dipertua Negeri was to close the festival on 31 May, and free shuttle buses ran between Imago and Suria Sabah malls and Hongkod Koisaan from 10am to 10pm (Bernama, checked 7 October 2026). Open houses at the traditional houses ran from 11am to 2pm on both days, serving traditional drinks only, with cultural performances and exhibitions, and a Kaamatan information counter was open from 15 to 31 May (Bernama, checked 7 October 2026).

What You Can't Miss:

• Unduk Ngadau State Finals (May 31): The cultural pageant celebrating the Huminodun legend. In 2026, 53 finalists, each in the traditional attire of the group she represented (Daily Express, checked 7 October 2026), went through preliminary sessions from 26 May, with final judging on the night of 31 May, where a top 25 advanced (Bernama, checked 7 October 2026), and then a top 7. Papar's Gelvia Vanessa Jenny was crowned the 66th Unduk Ngadau (The Star, checked 7 October 2026).
• Sumazau Dance: The traditional dance of the Kadazan-Dusun, performed in pairs.
• Sugandoi Competition: The singing competition, one of the festival highlights.
• Magunatip Bamboo Pole Dance: The Murut tradition where dancers jump through moving bamboo poles while music accelerates.
• Traditional Games: Blowpipe shooting, tug of war, stilt walking and other games, depending on the year's programme.

We could not find a published entrance fee for the state-level celebration, so check KDCA's official channels before you go. Food and crafts are paid for separately.

What is the Sumazau dance?

Sumazau is the iconic dance of Kaamatan, performed by pairs of male and female dancers. The movements are often described as imitating an eagle spreading its wings. The Sabah State Government describes Sumazau as the traditional dance of the Kadazan-Dusun community (Sabah State Government, checked 7 October 2026).

The Origin: Sumazau is believed to represent the spirit of the harvest and the balance between male and female roles in agriculture. The eagle motif comes from Sabah's landscape: eagles circle rice fields in the dry season, and Kadazan Dusun mythology ties the eagle to protection and abundance. Every movement of Sumazau honours this connection.

How It's Performed: Sumazau is always danced in pairs—one male, one female. The female dancer leads, moving slowly and gracefully, while the male dancer mirrors her movements slightly behind. The most distinctive feature is the arm movements:

• Arm Position: Both dancers hold their arms at shoulder height, elbows bent at roughly 90 degrees, with wrists relaxed.
• Wrist Flapping: The wrists flutter and flap continuously, mimicking the feather movements of an eagle in flight. This is not a rigid motion—it's fluid and rhythmic.
• Hip Movement: The hips sway gently side-to-side while the feet step in a deliberate, synchronized pattern. The movement is slow and meditative, not fast or energetic.
• Male Signal: At key moments, the male dancer lets out a distinctive "heeeeee!" or "hoo-hee!" call—a sharp, high-pitched vocalization that signals transitions and adds drama to the performance.

The Music: Sumazau is traditionally accompanied by gongs (particularly the large tagung gong), drums, and sometimes bamboo instruments. The rhythm is steady and slow, allowing the arm movements to be graceful and deliberate. Modern performances may use recorded music, but traditional live gong accompaniment is preferred and carries more cultural weight.

Male and Female Dynamics: The female dancer is the "lead" in the sense that she sets the pace and direction, but both dancers move in perfect synchronization. The male dancer is not submissive—he's protective and mirroring, embodying the male role in agriculture and harvest protection. This balance of leadership and support is intentional and reflects Kadazan Dusun gender dynamics in agriculture.

Can Visitors Learn and Participate? Sometimes, depending on the year's programme. Outside Kaamatan, Koisaan Cultural Village tours at KDCA include cultural performances and dances (Koisaan Cultural Village, checked 7 October 2026).

Where to See It: At the state-level celebration at KDCA and at district celebrations. Performance times change each year and we could not find a published schedule, so ask at the Kaamatan information counter.

What is Sugandoi?

Sugandoi is a Kadazan Dusun vocal talent competition where singers perform both traditional and contemporary Kadazan songs. It's the singing counterpart to Unduk Ngadau—a showcase of indigenous musical talent and cultural pride. KDCA explains that recitals and songs of praise and thanksgiving (Sugandoi) are part of the meaning of Kaamatan (KDCA, checked 7 October 2026), and Sabah Tourism lists the Sugandoi competition as one of the festival highlights (Sabah Tourism Board, checked 7 October 2026).

How Sugandoi Works: Singers compete at district level before the state-level contest. Categories, rules and judging criteria are set by the organisers each year and we could not find them published, so check with KDCA.

Traditional vs. Contemporary Songs: Sugandoi celebrates both. Traditional Kadazan songs are folk melodies passed down through generations—slower, more contemplative, and deeply tied to harvest and cultural stories. Contemporary Kadazan songs are modern compositions that use Kadazan language and themes but with contemporary music production—faster, more energetic, and appealing to younger audiences. Many performers do both to show range and respect for tradition.

What to Expect as a Spectator: Sugandoi performances are emotional and intimate. Unlike pageants with elaborate staging, Sugandoi is about the voice. You'll hear incredible vocal control, traditional instruments (gongs, drums, traditional flutes), and lyrics sung in Kadazan Dusun that often speak of harvest, family, love, and cultural pride. Spectators are vocal—they cheer, ululate (the high-pitched "ulululululu" cry), and show genuine support for performers. The atmosphere is celebratory, not formal.

Where and When to Watch: At KDCA's Hongkod Koisaan during Kaamatan. Dates and times change each year, so check the official schedule on KDCA's Facebook page.

Can You Compete? Contact KDCA or your district KDCA branch for entry rules and deadlines. Everyone is welcome to attend as a spectator.

What is Magunatip?

Magunatip is the traditional Murut bamboo pole dance. Dancers jump, hop, and skip between pairs of bamboo poles that are rhythmically struck together on the ground and each other. As the music tempo increases, the poles move faster, and the challenge intensifies—dancers must time their jumps perfectly to avoid having their ankles (or worse) caught between the poles. It's visually stunning, physically demanding, and deeply rooted in Murut cultural tradition. Magunatip is one of the most popular spectator events at Kaamatan.

How the Bamboo Poles Work: Two pairs of poles lie horizontally on the ground (four poles total). Two people control each pair, clapping the poles together rhythmically—first striking the ground, then clapping the poles against each other. The rhythm is steady at first. A dancer steps into the middle and must jump in and out of the poles, coordinating their movements to avoid being trapped when the poles clap together.

What makes Magunatip challenging is the acceleration. As the music tempo increases, the poles move faster. Experienced dancers can maintain perfect rhythm and footwork even at high speed, making it look effortless. First-timers often get caught and exit laughing, but that's part of the fun.

The Music and Rhythm: Magunatip is accompanied by traditional Murut drums and sometimes gongs. The rhythm is hypnotic and builds momentum. Unlike Sumazau (which is slow and meditative), Magunatip is energetic and playful, often generating laughter and cheers from spectators.

Visitor Participation: If the programme includes a try-it session, beginners are usually welcome, and handlers can slow the tempo. Most visitors try once, get caught or laugh at themselves, and do it again. It's a joyful, low-stakes activity.

Tips for Not Getting Your Ankles Caught:

• Watch the rhythm for 30 seconds before entering—count the beat and anticipate the pattern.
• Start at slow tempo. Ask the handlers to keep it slow while you learn the footwork.
• Jump—don't step. The key is vertical movement, not horizontal. Jump straight up and over the poles.
• Keep your feet close together. Wide stances make it harder to jump quickly.
• Watch the poles, not the spectators. Your eyes should track the gap.
• If you feel unbalanced, exit calmly. The handlers can pause the poles anytime.
• Have fun. Getting caught is expected and laughed about. No judgment.

Where to Find It at KDCA: Ask at the Kaamatan information counter for that year's performance locations and times.

What is Orang Kuat Sabah?

Orang Kuat Sabah ("Strong Man of Sabah") is a strongman contest. We could not find an official description, rules or schedule for it, or confirm that it runs every year, so check KDCA's programme for the current year.

Events, timing and entry: Events, timing and entry rules are set by the organisers and change from year to year. Ask at the Kaamatan information counter or contact KDCA.

What traditional games can I try?

Beyond the major performances, Kaamatan offers a range of traditional games that visitors can actively participate in. These are fun, low-stakes, and a genuine way to engage with Kadazan Dusun culture. Which games run changes each year. Year-round, Koisaan Cultural Village at KDCA offers games such as the giant slipper game, a traditional trampoline and a local catapult (Koisaan Cultural Village, checked 7 October 2026).

Blowpipe Contest (Sumpit): Competitors use traditional bamboo blowpipes to shoot darts at targets. It's harder than it looks—precision, breath control, and aim are essential. Watch an expert first to understand the technique.

Arm Wrestling: Simple, direct, and surprisingly fun. Ask the organisers whether visitors can enter.

Tug of War: Team-based and inclusive. Visitors can form mixed teams with locals. It's one of the most accessible games for people of varying fitness levels. No special skill required, just teamwork and enthusiasm.

Bamboo Stilt Walking: Balance and coordination challenge where you walk on tall bamboo stilts. Sounds harder than it actually is once you understand the technique. Good for photos and laughs.

Tapak (Hopscotch-like game): A traditional Sabahan ground game using stones and a drawn court. Rules are simple; locals will explain and invite you to play. Casual, non-competitive version is often played for fun. Low physical demand.

Batu Seremban (Jacks): A traditional game using small stones and hand coordination. You'll see locals playing casually around the festival grounds; ask to join and learn. It's leisurely, social, and great for conversation.

Slingshot (catapult): A local catapult is one of the games offered at Koisaan Cultural Village (Koisaan Cultural Village, checked 7 October 2026). Accuracy and timing are key.

Participation Tips: Ask at the Kaamatan information counter for a games schedule and location map. Wear comfortable shoes (you may be walking or standing on uneven ground). Bring some small cash in case a game charges a fee. Don't be shy—locals welcome visitors to participate. If you lose or struggle, that's the point—have fun with it.

What's the district celebrations schedule?

Kaamatan is celebrated at village, district and state levels throughout May (KDCA, checked 7 October 2026). In 2026 the festival was launched in Papar on 1 May (Bernama, checked 7 October 2026). We could not find an official list of district celebration dates and venues, and dates change every year, so check with KDCA (kdca.org.my or its Facebook page) or the district office before planning.

Important Reminders:

• These dates shift yearly. Always verify current dates with KDCA (kdca.org.my or Facebook) or your local district office.
• District celebrations are smaller than the State Festival and may have limited food stalls and attractions. Plan accordingly if travelling to a district.
• Some district celebrations are primarily for residents; check if visitors are welcome.
• The state-level celebration at KDCA, Penampang (30–31 May) is the largest celebration and the easiest for tourists to reach.

Why Visit a District Celebration? If you're genuinely interested in experiencing local Kadazan Dusun community culture (not just tourist attractions), district celebrations are more authentic. You'll see locals celebrating with family, taste home-cooked food, participate in smaller-scale performances, and have direct conversation with community members. The downside is less infrastructure (fewer food stalls, fewer facilities) and less accommodation nearby. District celebrations are best for travellers with their own transport and flexible schedules.

What should I photograph at Kaamatan?

Kaamatan is visually stunning, and you'll want to capture it. Here's a guide to the best photo subjects, etiquette, timing, and gear recommendations to help you bring home the best images.

Best Photo Subjects:

• Sumazau Dancers in Traditional Costume: The beadwork, embroidery, belts and headwear are incredible details, and they differ from group to group. Close-ups of arm movements and wrist flapping are striking. Wide shots show the grace and synchronization. Shoot from multiple angles.
• Unduk Ngadau Contestants: The pageant is a photographer's dream. Each contestant wears the traditional attire of the group she represents, so the stage shows many different costumes (Daily Express, checked 6 October 2026). Formal lighting on stage makes for sharp, colorful images. Get permission before taking close-ups.
• Magunatip Dancers Jumping Bamboo Poles: Action shots of feet mid-jump are dynamic and fun. The blur of motion, the focus on precision—these tell the story. Shoot in burst mode to catch the peak moment.
• Food Stalls and Dishes: Traditional dishes like hinava, linopot, and bambangan are colorful and photogenic. Golden-hour light makes food stalls glow. Ask vendors before photographing food; some will pose their best dishes for you.
• Crowd and Spectator Moments: Faces of spectators cheering, children watching performers, elderly locals enjoying food—these are emotional and authentic. Respect privacy; ask before photographing individuals, especially children.
• Landscape Shots: Sunset over the festival grounds, crowds at the main pavilion—wide shots capture the scale and energy of the event.
• Detail Shots: Close-ups of traditional jewelry, gong details, leaf-wrapped linopot parcels, intricate beadwork—these showcase the craftsmanship and cultural depth.

Photography Etiquette:

• Ask Permission: Before photographing individuals (especially children, elderly locals, or during sacred rituals), ask first. Most people are happy to have their photo taken if you ask respectfully. A smile and "boleh ambil gambar?" (Can I take a photo?) in Malay goes a long way.
• Respect Sacred Moments: Some rituals at KDCA are ceremonial and sacred. If an event is marked as "no photography" or if locals ask you not to photograph, respect that. Not every moment needs to be captured.
• Don't Obstruct Performances: Move to the side of performances, not in front. Other spectators and performers should not be blocked by your photography. Be aware of your position.
• Be Respectful During Pauses: During quiet moments or rest periods, approach people for photos. Don't interrupt live performances or formal ceremonies.
• Credit Locals: If you publish photos (on social media or blogs), consider tagging or crediting the location (KDCA, Kaamatan) and the community. This acknowledges the cultural significance of what you've captured.

Timing and Lighting:

• Golden Hour (6-7 AM and 4-6 PM): Warm, soft light is flattering for portraits and detail shots. Sunset light over the festival grounds is stunning. Avoid harsh midday sun (11 AM-3 PM) for portraits—shadows are too dark and light is too bright.
• Overcast Days: Paradoxically, overcast days are great for event photography. Even lighting reduces harsh shadows and makes colors more vibrant. Cloudy days are actually ideal for Kaamatan.
• Evening Performances: Stage lighting for evening Unduk Ngadau and Sugandoi performances is dramatic. Bring a camera that handles low light well (high ISO tolerance). Tripods may be restricted on crowded grounds; stabilize yourself instead.
• Early Morning (8-10 AM): Fewer crowds, softer light, and better for candid moments of daily festival life. Food stall vendors are setting up; this is a great time for documentary-style photography.

Gear Recommendations:

• Camera: Any camera works—smartphone, mirrorless, DSLR. Smartphones are convenient and capable; mirrorless/DSLRs offer more control. Bring a backup battery.
• Lenses: A versatile zoom lens (24-70mm equivalent) covers most situations. A wide-angle lens (14-24mm) is great for landscape and crowd shots. A 85-100mm prime lens is ideal for portraits and detail work.
• Stabilization: A tripod is helpful for evening shots and low-light situations, but may be impractical in crowds. Consider a monopod or image stabilization (optical or electronic).
• Weather Protection: Sabah is tropical; bring a small weather-protective bag or rain cover. May is rainy season—be prepared for sudden showers. UV filter on your lens protects the lens and reduces glare.
• Backup Storage: Bring extra SD cards and batteries. Festival photography generates hundreds of images. A portable external hard drive allows you to back up images overnight.

Photo Ideas to Aim For:

• Close-up of Unduk Ngadau contestant's face (with permission)—the emotion and beauty of the moment.
• Wide shot of the whole Sumazau performance, showing multiple dancer pairs on stage.
• Action shot of Magunatip dancer mid-jump with bamboo poles in motion.
• Food photography: hinava plate with lime juice glistening, linopot wrapped in green leaf, colorful bambangan jars.
• Spectator moments: elderly Kadazan woman cheering, children's faces as they watch performers, families eating together.
• Sunset over KDCA grounds with festival lights just coming on.
• Detail shots: gong being played, beaded jewelry on a contestant, traditional headwear up close.
• Night shot of the illuminated pavilion during evening performances.

Photography at Kaamatan is about capturing both the spectacle (performances, costumes, crowds) and the intimacy (reactions, food, small moments of connection). Aim for a mix of both, and you'll have a rich, memorable visual record of the festival.

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