Mount Kinabalu challenge for Harvest Queen
Kota Kinabalu: One does not only have to be beautiful inside and out to be the State Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan (UNK), but also physically fit as proven by this year’s crown holder Hosiani James Jaimis.
Hosiani, together with the first runner-up of the State UNK pageant, Sherrylyn Jane Rannytho, and State UNK organising committee chairperson Joanna Datuk Kitingan as well as other committee members, will be taking on the challenge of climbing Mount Kinabalu.
Commending their effort, State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Christina Liew said over the years, the role of the State UNK is becoming more meaningful in promoting Sabah’s cultural heritage tourism spots.
“This year, Sabah Parks will sponsor her (Hosiani) climb on Aug 12-13…this is the first time the State UNK is going to officially climb Mount Kinabalu,” she said during a courtesy call by the State UNK organising committee at the Ministry’s office, here, Thursday.
Liew added that the Ministry will also endorse the State UNK as the State Cultural Heritage Tourism Ambassador where she can be invited to promote Sabah together with the Sabah Tourism Board or any relevant agencies.
“The Ministry will be able to benefit if we work closely with the State UNK committee to promote tourism.”
Admitting that the Mount Kinabalu climb will be the first experience for 25-year-old Hosiani, she is now busy in making intensive preparation for the climb.
“It was Joanna who first encouraged me to climb Mount Kinabalu as part of the ways to promote our tourism spots.
“Now, I work out in gym as well as go for morning jogs almost every day…I hope everything will be fine.
“I was a sprinter during my school days but it has been a while I did not take part in hill-hiking activities.
“As part of the preparation, we will also do training sessions in Bukit Padang,” she said. Joanna is also confident with the capabilities of Hosiani in promoting tourism in the State. “Mount Kinabalu is the first cultural heritage site in the State to be promoted by her. “It is a tough assignment but I believe in her abilities as she is an all-rounder.
“That is what Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan is all about – it is not just about beauty, but also embracing the spirit of Huminodun, to be ready all the time to carry out her duties.”Furthermore, Mount Kinabalu is a significant site as it is revered by the local communities.”
The team will be flagged off by Liew at Timpohon gate, on Aug 12.
Source: Daily Express
