Dr. Jeffrey Installed as Huguan Siou Lundu Mirongod

KOTA KINABALU - In a simple and solemn ceremony steeped in adat and tradition, Datuk Dr. Jeffrey Kitingan was successfully installed as the Huguan Siou Lundu Mirongod by the Keeper of the “Adat” and Traditions of the KadazanDusuns, Tindarama Bobolian Chief OKK Ammann Sirom Simbuna OT Tarantab, in the presence of the Bobolian Council held earlier today at Kampong Bangkahak Nayasan, Tempasuk, Kota Belud.

The Huguan Siou Lundu Mirongod or Brave Paramount Thinker of the KadazanDusun community was bestowed on Dr. Jeffrey in recognition of his contributions in leading them in intellect, knowledge and education and fulfilment of the strict requirements of the esteemed title.

In accepting the customary title, Dr. Jeffrey said that he felt humbled and at the same time honoured as the title was bestowed by the KadazanDusun Bobolian Council and “Adat” elders and should be respected and honoured in accordance with the traditions and customs of the native community in Sabah.

“I will endeavour my best in further enhancing the contributions of the native community and helping to chart their further development and progress especially through the sharing of my knowledge and experience to the younger generations through the activation of the People Development Foundation.  I hope that with the additional knowledge and experience, the younger generation will help in making Sabah more progressive and contribute towards nation building in Malaysia” said Dr. Jeffrey.

He added that the bestowing of the award should not be politicised or questioned by anyone particularly those who are not familiar with the “Adat” and traditions governing the award which is to complement and not in competition with the Huguan Siou title held by his beloved elder brother, Tan Sri Pairin.

The installation ceremony was also witnessed by a delegation from the Majlis Adat Dayak Nasional from several Kalimantan provinces including Dr. Adrianus Asia Sidot, Drs. Agustinus Clarus, Dr. Yulianus Enock Sumual, Dr. Bonefasius Bone, Drs Thresia Hosanna Sumual, Wisi Antiochus, Dra Petronela, Dra Rufini, Drs Asuardi Darius, Keven Sukimo, Ronik, Marsoamis Sugiono, Antonius, Drs. Leonardo Yohanes Lukman, Drs Kiat and Marcus Madu.  

The Sarawak Dayak National Congress delegation led by Mangga Mikui with Sarawak Bidayuh community representatives as well as Adat elders including James Bagah, President of the United Sabah Tindal Organisation, and his full committee, Organising Chairman Tantagas Jeams Suali, distinguished guests including Datuk Justin Stimol, a recent guest of the Hungarian government for his poem in memory of the Hungarian Uprising of 1956 against communist rule, and a large local crowd from all over Sabah.