
PETRONAS presents Tinorindak Olisi – a Kaamatan story of true victory
Elldiwirna Saimen (right) leads as Elyna, with Daphne Iking playing her mother in Tinorindak Olisi.
KOTA KINABALU (June 17): In celebration of this year's Kaamatan festival, PETRONAS presents Tinorindak Olisi (Crown of Love) — a heartfelt tale of discovering triumph not just through titles, but through love, cultural pride, and quiet resilience.
Anchored in the tradition of Unduk Ngadau — a cherished highlight of the Kaamatan festivities — the film offers a moving reflection on the deeper meaning of what it truly means to win.
Set against the vibrant cultural landscape and rich heritage of Sabah, Tinorindak Olisi features the Dusun language as its primary medium, interwoven with local Sabahan dialects, highlighting the beauty of diversity and unity among the state's many ethnic groups.
The story follows Elyna Jamis, a young woman competing in the Unduk Ngadau pageant.
Elyna receiving a sirung (hat) from her grandmother. The sirung symbolises her community's hope that she carries throughout her Unduk Ngadau journey.
Driven by her dreams, Elyna steps onto the stage with courage and pride, embodying the hopes of her supportive community. Amid the cheers and celebrations, she finds herself on a journey far deeper than the pursuit of a title—one that challenges her perceptions of success and identity.
'In line with this year's theme, 'Kaamatan for All', this film reminds us that true strength lies in the support and unity we share as a community, especially as we strive toward progress together,' said Siti Azlina A Latif, PETRONAS Senior General Manager of Strategic Communications, Group Strategic Relations and Communications.
'Through this story, PETRONAS hopes to inspire all of us to continue uplifting one another in our shared journey toward progress,' she added.
The film was unveiled in conjunction with Yayasan PETRONAS' Uplifting Lives Festive programme, attended by Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, who is also Deputy President of the Kadazandusun Cultural Association.
During the event, Dr Jeffrey, accompanied by Siti Azlina, handed over essential food items and festive packs to selected recipients from Manggatal.
Dr Jeffrey (seated, centre), Siti Azlina (seated, third from left) posing for photograph with cast members and other guests.
Launched earlier this month in Tambunan, the Uplifting Lives Festive programme reached a total of 500 recipients across Manggatal, Tambunan, Tongod, and Kepayan — all identified by the Sabah Social Welfare Department.
Uplifting Lives Festive is part of an ongoing effort to support communities in need during key festive seasons in Malaysia, including Chinese New Year, Aidilfitri, Kaamatan, Gawai, Deepavali, and Christmas.
Siti Azlina said: 'We not only celebrate the spirit of togetherness through our Kaamatan webfilm but also reaffirm our commitment to strengthening bonds within the community.
From showcasing local culture to spreading festive joy to underprivileged families, PETRONAS continues to honour traditions while building a more connected and compassionate society for all.'
Tinorindak Olisi, directed by renowned filmmaker Ismail Kamarul, is available on PETRONAS' official YouTube and Facebook channels.
Cast members and cultural advisors posing for photographs.
Dr Jeffrey expressed the Sabah Government gratitude towards PETRONAS for playing an important role of helping promote the Kaamatan festival and the values behind it.
'PETRONAS plays a significant role in Sabah's economic development and the welfare of our society. They also help raise awareness about life's value, including those within ourselves, that can help uplift communities through acts of care and support.
Dr Jeffrey also mentioned that he was moved by the short film produced by PETRONAS.
'Although it was short, it carried a powerful message that we could all understand. The story of an Unduk Ngadau contestant who had high hopes of winning, backed by her family and community, but who ultimately came second — it touched me. She truly wanted to win, and she felt as though she had let down those who supported her. But the truth is, she did her best, and that alone is something her family and community can be immensely proud of,' he said.
'I am truly grateful to PETRONAS because every year, they create stories that touch our hearts and give us meaningful messages to reflect on together,' he said. cultural diversity Kaamatan movie Petronas Tinorindak Olisi
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Borneo Post
4 days ago
- Borneo Post
PETRONAS presents Tinorindak Olisi – a Kaamatan story of true victory
Elldiwirna Saimen (right) leads as Elyna, with Daphne Iking playing her mother in Tinorindak Olisi. KOTA KINABALU (June 17): In celebration of this year's Kaamatan festival, PETRONAS presents Tinorindak Olisi (Crown of Love) — a heartfelt tale of discovering triumph not just through titles, but through love, cultural pride, and quiet resilience. Anchored in the tradition of Unduk Ngadau — a cherished highlight of the Kaamatan festivities — the film offers a moving reflection on the deeper meaning of what it truly means to win. Set against the vibrant cultural landscape and rich heritage of Sabah, Tinorindak Olisi features the Dusun language as its primary medium, interwoven with local Sabahan dialects, highlighting the beauty of diversity and unity among the state's many ethnic groups. The story follows Elyna Jamis, a young woman competing in the Unduk Ngadau pageant. Elyna receiving a sirung (hat) from her grandmother. The sirung symbolises her community's hope that she carries throughout her Unduk Ngadau journey. Driven by her dreams, Elyna steps onto the stage with courage and pride, embodying the hopes of her supportive community. Amid the cheers and celebrations, she finds herself on a journey far deeper than the pursuit of a title—one that challenges her perceptions of success and identity. 'In line with this year's theme, 'Kaamatan for All', this film reminds us that true strength lies in the support and unity we share as a community, especially as we strive toward progress together,' said Siti Azlina A Latif, PETRONAS Senior General Manager of Strategic Communications, Group Strategic Relations and Communications. 'Through this story, PETRONAS hopes to inspire all of us to continue uplifting one another in our shared journey toward progress,' she added. The film was unveiled in conjunction with Yayasan PETRONAS' Uplifting Lives Festive programme, attended by Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Jeffrey Kitingan, who is also Deputy President of the Kadazandusun Cultural Association. During the event, Dr Jeffrey, accompanied by Siti Azlina, handed over essential food items and festive packs to selected recipients from Manggatal. Dr Jeffrey (seated, centre), Siti Azlina (seated, third from left) posing for photograph with cast members and other guests. Launched earlier this month in Tambunan, the Uplifting Lives Festive programme reached a total of 500 recipients across Manggatal, Tambunan, Tongod, and Kepayan — all identified by the Sabah Social Welfare Department. Uplifting Lives Festive is part of an ongoing effort to support communities in need during key festive seasons in Malaysia, including Chinese New Year, Aidilfitri, Kaamatan, Gawai, Deepavali, and Christmas. Siti Azlina said: 'We not only celebrate the spirit of togetherness through our Kaamatan webfilm but also reaffirm our commitment to strengthening bonds within the community. From showcasing local culture to spreading festive joy to underprivileged families, PETRONAS continues to honour traditions while building a more connected and compassionate society for all.' Tinorindak Olisi, directed by renowned filmmaker Ismail Kamarul, is available on PETRONAS' official YouTube and Facebook channels. Cast members and cultural advisors posing for photographs. Dr Jeffrey expressed the Sabah Government gratitude towards PETRONAS for playing an important role of helping promote the Kaamatan festival and the values behind it. 'PETRONAS plays a significant role in Sabah's economic development and the welfare of our society. They also help raise awareness about life's value, including those within ourselves, that can help uplift communities through acts of care and support. Dr Jeffrey also mentioned that he was moved by the short film produced by PETRONAS. 'Although it was short, it carried a powerful message that we could all understand. The story of an Unduk Ngadau contestant who had high hopes of winning, backed by her family and community, but who ultimately came second — it touched me. She truly wanted to win, and she felt as though she had let down those who supported her. But the truth is, she did her best, and that alone is something her family and community can be immensely proud of,' he said. 'I am truly grateful to PETRONAS because every year, they create stories that touch our hearts and give us meaningful messages to reflect on together,' he said. cultural diversity Kaamatan movie Petronas Tinorindak Olisi


Daily Express
13-06-2025
- Daily Express
Tinorindak Olisi: A Crown Forged in Love and Legacy
Tinorindak Olisi: A Crown Forged in Love and Legacy This Kaamatan, PETRONAS unveiled 'Tinorindak Olisi' (Crown of Love) a film that redefines victory not by trophies, but by the love and grit that bind us together. Set against the backdrop of Sabah's iconic Unduk Ngadau pageant, the 6-minute-30-second film follows Elyna Jamis, a young woman who discovers that true triumph lies in community support and personal courage. Advertisement Directed by Ismail Kamarul and starring real-life Unduk Ngadau runner-up Elldiwirna Saimen, the story shines with authenticity, featuring the Dusun language and Sabah's rich traditions. "When I read the script, it was incredibly close to my own experience," said Elldiwirna. "I know exactly how it feels to come in second place. While I was not disappointed in real life, I understood those emotions and could bring them to the screen authentically,' she said. This is Elldiwirna's second acting project, following her debut in an RTM production titled "Cinta Ayu'. Advertisement For the 26-year-old Master's student in Biotechnology at Universiti Malaysia Sabah's Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, this reflects more than just an acting opportunity, it is a platform to feature Sabahan culture globally. "When PETRONAS creates films like this, featuring our Unduk Ngadau tradition with all our traditional costumes, people across Malaysia get to see and learn about our heritage. They will ask questions, seek to understand and that is how our culture reaches new audiences,' she said. Advertisement The film also stars Daphne Iking, Unduk Ngadau 2003 winner, who plays Elyna's mother. "Stepping into the role of Elyna's mother in the PETRONAS Kaamatan 2025 film was not just acting. It was a return to my roots,' said Daphne. 'As a former Unduk Ngadau Queen, I once stood as a symbol of tradition, strength and the spirit of Huminodun. This role brought me back to that essence, but this time, through the eyes of a mother guiding the next generation. "In many ways, it reminded me that Kaamatan is not just about the beauty we wear on the outside, but the values, struggles and stories we carry within. 'To portray a mother holding on to culture, yet gently letting her daughter find her own path… that hit home. A reminder that supports and community is key to growth and togetherness. Everyone is a winner especially when they have done their best,' she said. "I was so excited when I learned that Daphne Iking would be playing my mother," said Elldiwirna "She helped me a lot with my acting techniques during our mother-daughter scenes,' she added. "I want viewers to feel touched and inspired. Life sometimes places us in second position, but that does not mean we stay there forever. 'I especially want young women out there to feel inspired by this story,' said Elldiwirna who hopes the film will resonate with viewers seeking inspiration. Filming took place across various locations in Sabah, including the Department of National Culture and Arts in Penampang, Kampung Sinulihan in Inanam and the Kadazandusun Cultural Centre. The production was intensive, with cast and crew working through gruelling 24-hour shoots to capture the film's authentic emotional depth. "In line with this year's theme, 'Kaamatan for All', this film reminds us that true strength lies in the support and unity we share as a community, especially as we strive toward progress together," said PETRONAS Senior General Manager of Strategic Communications Siti Azlina A Latif. "Through this story, PETRONAS hopes to inspire all of us to continue uplifting one another in our shared journey toward progress,' she said. "We not only celebrate the spirit of togetherness through our Kaamatan webfilm but also reaffirm our commitment to strengthening bonds within the community. "From showcasing local culture to spreading festive joy to underprivileged families, PETRONAS continues to honour traditions while building a more connected and compassionate society for all,' she said. Beyond storytelling, PETRONAS extended its Uplifting Lives initiative, distributing festive packages to 500 underprivileged families in Sabah during the film's exclusive preview in Kota Kinabalu. Essential food items and festive packages were distributed to families in need, reaching recipients across four key areas, namely 150 families in Manggatal, 200 in Tambunan, 100 in Tongod and 50 in Kepayan, all identified by the Sabah Social Welfare Department. This initiative supports communities throughout Malaysia's major celebrations including Chinese New Year, Aidilfitri, Kaamatan, Gawai, Deepavali and Christmas, truly embodying the spirit of unity in diversity. Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey G Kitingan, who is also Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry cum State-level Kaamatan Festival Organising Chairperson, extended his appreciation for PETRONAS' contributions. "I want to take this opportunity on behalf of the Sabah Government to express our gratitude to PETRONAS for the important role played not only in economic development but also in community welfare," he said. "The entire film moved me to tears because it cannot be divided into parts, it must be seen as a complete story. I am very grateful to PETRONAS because every year they create stories that touch the heart and give us messages to reflect upon in our lives,' he said. "Tinorindak Olisi" is now streaming on PETRONAS' YouTube and Facebook. Join millions in celebrating a story where every effort crowns a winner.


Daily Express
09-06-2025
- Daily Express
Kaamatan joy in US and France
Published on: Monday, June 09, 2025 Published on: Mon, Jun 09, 2025 By: Zia Holly, Lorena Binisol Text Size: Sumazau and Magunatip dances and singing. AUBURN: Some 30 Sabahans from across the United States gathered here, recently, for the fifth annual North Borneo Sabahan Abroad Kaamatan Celebration, maintaining cultural traditions thousands of miles from home. It was hosted by Jo Monjuil-Frinak and Tim Frinak at their Auburn home and drew participants from Arizona, Texas, Arkansas, Georgia, Florida and Ohio. What began as a modest gathering five years ago has evolved into an annual homecoming for Sabahans living in the US. Advertisement The event featured a unique addition this year when Malaysian storyboard artist Glen Bosiwang, visiting his sister Kim Bosiwang in Phoenix, documented the celebration through his cartoon illustrations, capturing the spirit of Kaamatan in artistic form. Unlike formal cultural events, the Kaamatan Abroad celebration operates without any central committees or rigid protocols. Each year, different hosts shape the celebration's character, with Dr Pamela Petrus-Purser providing guidance. Subscribe or LOG IN to access this article. Support Independant Journalism Subscribe to Daily Express Malaysia Access to DE E-Paper Access to DE E-Paper Exclusive News Exclusive News Invites to special events Invites to special events Giveaways & Rewards 1-Year Most Popular (Income Tax Deductible) Explore Plans Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia