KOTA KINABALU: May 2, 2026
The Sugandoi competition is helping to strengthen cultural tourism in Sabah by showcasing traditional music linked to the Kaamatan Festival, said Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Sabin Samitah.
He said the strong participation, particularly among youths, reflects continued interest in preserving traditional music while also enhancing the cultural appeal of the state.
“The performances, especially from the younger participants, were very good and showed that their interest in traditional music remains strong,” he said after the presentation ceremony of the Kota Kinabalu City Hall (KKCH) level Sugandoi final at Imago Shopping Mall.
He said the competition also has tourism value as it provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the Kaamatan Festival through music and cultural expression.
“Sugandoi can be considered the soul of experiencing and understanding the Kaamatan Festival,” he said, adding that such cultural showcases can attract both domestic and international tourists.
Sabin also expressed appreciation to the organisers and strategic partner Imago for supporting the event, saying such initiatives should continue as part of efforts to promote Kota Kinabalu as a cultural tourism destination.
At the same time, he urged residents and visitors to maintain cleanliness to ensure a pleasant environment for tourism activities in the city.
He also encouraged participants who did not win to continue improving and return for future competitions, while advising winners to further refine their performances for the state-level stage.
There were three categories in the competition: Dazanak (children), Songkotoun (adults) and open category.
Thirteen-year-old Hannah Jean Roney emerged champion in the open category and proceeds to the quarter-finals.
The Form One student of SMK Sikuati II said her win was unexpected, adding that she focused on delivering her best performance.
“I am still balancing my studies and vocal training, so it is a bit difficult,” she said.
Hannah, who began singing at a young age, said she hopes to continue improving as she progresses in the competition.
She represented KKCH and won RM3,500, a trophy, certificate and a RM200 voucher. She also received the Best Vocalist and Best New Musical Arrangement awards.
Second place went to Keyrolina Roger (Tanjung Aru), who also won the Best Performance award, while Muhlis Hustev Ozkan (Likas) placed third.
In the Songkotoun category, Francis Odoi (Kota Kinabalu) emerged champion, followed by Hilary Petrus (Tanjung Aru) and Romeo Ansow (Likas).
In the Dazanak category, Qistina Izz Zara Roblin (Kota Kinabalu) emerged champion, followed by Myra Eve Fernandez (Tanjung Aru) and Dea Telisha Felix (Likas).
