In the sacred and solemn atmosphere of Pesta Kaamatan, the Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan Papar 2025 pageant officially crowned its outstanding winner: Tati Ann Rachel Oilon. She is not only a symbol of beauty but also embodies the spirit of sacrifice, wisdom, and purity of Huminodun.
The legend of Huminodun and the soul of Unduk Ngadau
Unduk Ngadau is not just a beauty pageant; it is a solemn ceremony honoring Huminodun, the sacred daughter of Kinoingan and Sumundu, who sacrificed herself to save humanity from famine. She symbolizes sacrifice and rebirth, bringing new life to the world. Beyond being a goddess figure, Huminodun embodies love, selflessness, and compassion. These are the core values that every Unduk Ngadau must carry with every step she takes.
The Unduk Ngadau pageant, set against the backdrop of the Pesta Kaamatan ceremony, is not only a cultural showcase but also a bridge connecting tradition and the modern era. From traditional costumes to the Kadazan Dusun language used in the Q&A segment, everything combines to create a vibrant cultural tapestry on the Papar stage.
The face of intellect and identity named Ann Rachel Oilon
On May 17, 2025, at Dewan Marahang, the young woman named Ann Rachel Oilon was crowned the winner of Unduk Ngadau Papar. She will represent Papar district at the national-level competition, showcasing her beauty in the traditional Kadazan Papar attire, “Sia Do Binoikian,” rich in ethnic heritage.
Born and raised in the heart of Papar, Ann is not only a beautiful young woman. She carries a confident aura, a captivating voice, and, most importantly, a deep understanding of her ethnic culture. During the Q&A segment, she responded in Kadazan, not only to showcase her strength but also as a pledge to ensure that her mother tongue will never be forgotten.
Unduk Ngadau: Empowering Women Through Culture and Entrepreneurship
This year’s theme has elevated the pageant to a new level. Beyond traditional culture, contestants participated in workshops on entrepreneurship, leadership, and community development. The vision of Unduk Ngadau now goes far beyond a mere beauty title. This reflects a shift in how beauty is perceived: no longer confined to physical appearance, but defined by commitment, knowledge, and the ability to create a positive impact on society.
According to Lesley George, the head of the organizing committee, the pageant serves as a major launching pad to train young women to become ambassadors of culture and leaders of social change. Another noteworthy contribution comes from Julia Fenesia, a member of the district-level social media team, whose quiet yet vital efforts have helped widely spread the image and spirit of the competition throughout the community. This is a pageant of the future—of women who have the power to take control of their own destinies.
Embracing the belief and future of the Borneo culture
While Unduk Ngadau continues to shine each year, the native language—the soul of KDMR (Kadazan,Dusun, Murut and Rungus) culture—is facing the risk of fading away. Education, advocacy, and encouraging young people to participate in activities like Unduk Ngadau are long-term strategies to preserve this cultural flame.
The pageant not only names its winner but also awakens a deep sense of ethnic pride in every KDMR person. With the support and guidance of organizations like KDCA, the future of Borneo’s culture will continue to shine brightly, starting with the honored smiles on the Unduk Ngadau stage.
Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan Papar 2025 has left a profound mark in the hearts of the people of Papar. It is more than just a competition—it is a symbol of the burning desire to preserve culture, love for one’s roots, and the rise of young women. With Tati Ann Rachel Oilon, Papar entrusts more than a dream: it places its faith in a generation that cherishes culture and ethnic identity.
Catherine | Cameron Truong
