TAMPARULI: Many young people have dreams and potential, but fear and self-doubt often stop them from trying something new.
For Daniel Chrionie Bin Taning, courage is not about being perfect. It is about taking the first step despite doubts and challenges.
The third-place winner of Randawi Tavantang Kaamatan 2026 hopes more youths will have the confidence to step forward and believe in themselves.
“I hope people will see me not only as the third-place winner, but as someone who was willing to take on a challenge despite the obstacles I faced before and during the competition.
“To young people out there, do not be afraid to step forward even if you have many weaknesses. Weaknesses can be improved if we are willing to work hard,” he said.
Courage starts with one step
For Daniel, joining Randawi Tavantang Kaamatan was not an easy decision.
At 30 years old, he was worried that he would be treated differently because most of the contestants were younger than him.
However, the experience proved otherwise.
“Because of my age, I was worried that I would be treated differently compared to the other contestants.
“But the contestants of Randawi Tavantang Kaamatan 2026 showed me that age was never a barrier to friendship,” he said.
The experience taught him that sometimes all it takes is one step to discover new opportunities.
From strangers to family
One of Daniel’s most meaningful memories was not the final night of the competition.
Instead, it was the time spent with other contestants during the camp activities at Nuluhon Garden.
Although they started as strangers, they quickly became close through teamwork and shared experiences.
“At first, we did not know each other. But through the activities, we became very close.
“We shared laughter, challenges and hard work together until we became like a family,” he said.
According to Daniel, the friendships formed during the programme became one of the most valuable parts of the journey.
More than a competition
The competition also gave Daniel a chance to learn more about culture and identity.
He said the experience allowed him to see how young men from different districts proudly represented their traditional attire and cultural heritage.
“When I joined this competition, I saw how young men in Sabah proudly promote their traditional clothing and culture,” he said.
He also strengthened his mother tongue and gained a deeper understanding of the customs and traditions of different communities in Sabah.
For Daniel, culture is not just something from the past, but something that should continue to be appreciated by the younger generation.
More than third place
Beyond the third-place title, Daniel believes the greatest reward was the experience and personal growth he gained throughout the journey.
He hopes his story will encourage more young people to step out of their comfort zones and try something new.
For him, success does not start with perfection.
It starts with having the courage to take the first step.
