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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
