Kaamatan spirit

The Star

29-05-2025

From the heart: Elldiwirna (fourth from left) alongside the 'Tinorindak Olisi' cast at the webfilm's launch in Kota Kinabalu.
KOTA KINABALU: Sometimes coming in second best is not bad at all, and this is precisely what the latest PETRONAS' Kaamatan webfilm is communicating.
Titled Tinorindak Olisi (Crown of Love in Kadazandusun), this touching short film explores the true meaning of triumph which is found not through titles, but love, cultural pride and inner resi­lience.
Centred around the iconic Unduk Ngadau pageant, Tinorindak Olisi, which features exclusively Sabahan talents, features a heartfelt narrative that delves into the deeper significance of Kaamatan.
Told primarily in the Dusun language and enriched with Sabahan dialects, the six-minute, 30-second film celebrates Sabah's rich cultural tapestry and the unity among its many ethnic communities.
Directed by Ismail Kamarul, the film stars Elldiwirna Saimen, the first runner-up of Unduk Ngadau 2024, as Elyna Jamis, and Daphne Iking, the 2003 Unduk Ngadau, as her mother.
The story follows Elyna, a young woman vying for the Unduk Ngadau crown.
Fuelled by dreams and encouraged by her community, she embarks on a journey of self-­discovery that ultimately reshapes her understanding of success and identity.
'In line with this year's theme, Kaamatan for All, this film reminds us that true strength lies in the unity and support of the community as we strive forward together,' said Siti Azlina A Latif, PETRONAS senior general manager of strategic communications.
The film was launched under Yayasan PETRONAS' Uplifting Lives Festive programme, during an event attended by Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, who doubles as deputy president of the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association.
'It is more than just a campaign. It is a call to empower and uplift communities, and a reminder of the values that bind us,' said Kitingan, who is also state Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister.
Moved by the film, he described it as 'powerful', adding that it resonated strongly with the audience.
'It served as a reminder that behind every achievement is a network of support and belief. The entire story was powerful. It was not just one part, but the whole journey,' he said.
He noted that the film also served as a reflection of PETRONAS' ongoing commitment to cultural inclusivity and social responsibility.
'I am very thankful to PETRONAS. Every year, they produce heartfelt stories that don't just entertain but also teach, inspire, and bring us together,' said Kitingan.
During the event, Kitingan, together with Siti Azlina, distributed essential food items and festive packs to selected recipients in Manggatal.
The Uplifting Lives Festive initiative, which began earlier this month in Tambunan, reached 500 beneficiaries across Manggatal, Tambunan, Tongod and Kepayan, which were all identified by the Sabah Social Welfare Department.
'From spotlighting Sabah's cultural heritage to bringing festive cheer to families in need, we continue to build a more connected and compassionate society for all,' said Siti Azlina.
Tinorindak Olisi is now available on PETRONAS' official YouTube and Facebook channels.