PENAMPANG: Sept 19, 2026 — Various Kadazandusun ethnic and sub-ethnic groups sought common ground through the Kadazandusun Dialogue 2026, which discussed shared history, identity, the KDCA Umbrella Concept, cultural heritage and community unity.
The one-day programme at Dewan Hongkod Koisaan, Penampang, brought together representatives of 49 ethnic and sub-ethnic groups under the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association Sabah (KDCA).
Themed “Unification in Diversity”, the dialogue provided space to understand how ethnic identity can continue to be preserved while building a collective Kadazandusun identity and common interests.
KDCA deputy president Huguan Siou Lundu Mirongod Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey G. Kitingan stressed that unification does not mean uniformity.
“We have different views and understandings of this identity. That is why this dialogue is important. We need to listen to one another, look back at its history, explain how Kadazandusun identity developed and find common ground,” he said.
The dialogue was organised through four main sessions, beginning with a Shared History session presented by Datuk Ir. John Anthony.
The second session, KDCA Strategic Goals, was also presented by John Anthony, focusing on Strategic Goal 1 (Key Action Plan 4) — Strengthening the KDCA Umbrella Concept.
The concept emphasises diversity as part of the Kadazandusun community, with each ethnic and sub-ethnic group retaining its own language, customs, culture, history and identity.
The third session, Unity Through Kaamatan, presented by Tindarama Dr Benedict Topin, focused on the role of Kaamatan as a platform to strengthen community unity through customs, language, music, dance and tradition.
The final session, Strengthening Community Unity, featured KDCA president Huguan Siou Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Joseph Pairin Kitingan, who discussed shared values, culture, customs and the community’s future aspirations.
In his closing speech, Pairin stressed that unity must be built by respecting the identity of each ethnic and sub-ethnic group.
“Ethnic identity is our root. Kadazandusun is our collective identity. KDCA is our shared home,” he said.
The programme also saw the adoption of a Joint Resolution before the closing speech and a Kupi-Kupi session.
Overall, the Kadazandusun Dialogue 2026 opened space for various ethnic and sub-ethnic groups to trace history, understand identity and discuss common interests in efforts to strengthen community unity.
