KOTA KINABALU (Oct 8): The vibrant cultural landscape of Sabah was beautifully showcased through the recently concluded musical theatre production, Duzung: The Origin of Hampo Rungus. Held at the auditorium of the National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN) in Kota Kinabalu from September 20-22, this three-day performance captivated audiences with a compelling narrative rooted in the folklore of the Momogun Rungus community, primarily residing in the northern regions of Sabah, specifically in Pitas and Kudat.
A Unique Cultural Narrative
Written by Anang Moo, Duzung draws inspiration from traditional Rungus tales, also known as “tangon,” which are often shared as bedtime stories. The musical unfolds the enchanting tale of mermaids, referred to as Duzung, who venture ashore in search of fun and adventure. However, the storyline takes a poignant turn when one of the Duzung princesses finds herself unable to return to the ocean after losing her tail, which she had chosen to remove.
This narrative not only entertains but also weaves in the rich beliefs surrounding the creation of traditional copper accessories such as Saring (bracelets), Lungkaki (anklets), and Ganggalung (necklaces), which play an essential role in the Rungus ethnic attire. By intertwining folklore with contemporary performance art, the production showcases the importance of preserving and promoting indigenous cultures.
Community and Collaboration
Vinnie Nursyahirah Abdullah, the producer of the show, expressed her gratitude towards the audiences, noting the positive feedback received. “The production team has been praised for their efforts to maintain the authenticity of Rungus culture in many scenes,” she stated. Vinnie hopes that the musical becomes a phenomenon that inspires more artists in the theatre scene to contribute to the vibrant arts culture in Sabah.
The production was a collaborative effort, featuring a talented ensemble cast, including local talents such as Ryna Norzita, Andre Doni, Francissca Ester Nain, and Rolands John. The supporting cast comprised Jane Anastasia, Joe Japrin, Saiful Maun, Restmon Spevin, Prissca Loanna, Daisy Guriting, Jasmine Arora, Fifiana Christin, Faizan Ruzman, Aiman Karim, Ellen Gabriella, Debbie J, and Annabelle Thailon.
A special appearance by Inai Mongulozi from Kampung Narandang Kanibongan, Pitas, as the Bobolizan leader, enriched the performance with authentic “rinait” (rites), showcasing the depth of Rungus cultural traditions. Additionally, the traditional Rungus dance, Mongigol Sumundai, performed by a cultural heritage group from Kanibongan, further highlighted the rich artistic expressions of the community.
Acknowledging Support
The theatre production was presented by the Persatuan Kebajikan Amal Kasih, Kota Belud (PER-KASIH), in collaboration with Produksi Seni Kreatif (PSK), Stage Production, and JKKN of Sabah. The production team, led by Vinnie, included Shah Zainal as the production director, Syafix Salleh as the assistant director, Patta Ariffin as stage manager, Ismaliza Ishak as actor trainer, Weena Semanggang for scenography, and Jennifer Raymond from ARSV as the costume designer.
Among the special guests at the performance were prominent figures such as Datuk Mohd Arsad Bistari, chairman of Sabah Softwoods Berhad and Tempasuk assemblyman; Riduan Rubin, Member of Parliament for Tenom; Jasmi Rasit, director of Sabah JKKN; and Florence John Luan, manager of Keningau. Local celebrities, including Fanzi Runji, Dabra Sia, Eylia Guntabid, and influencers such as Bony My Kaamatan, Sakinah vs Ondu, and Geo Allen, also graced the event, showcasing the widespread support for local arts and culture.
Conclusion: A Cultural Milestone
Duzung: The Origin of Hampo Rungus stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of cultural preservation. By transforming Rungus myths into a musical theatre format, this production not only entertains but also educates audiences about the rich traditions of the Rungus people. It encourages a greater appreciation for the unique cultural heritage of Sabah, making it an inspiring milestone in the local arts scene.
As we reflect on this remarkable performance, we are reminded of the vital role that theatre and the arts play in preserving our cultural narratives and fostering a sense of community. The hope is that such initiatives will continue to flourish, inspiring future generations to engage with and celebrate their cultural identities.