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Borneo Post
17 hours ago
- Borneo Post
A glimpse into Pitas: challenges and pathways to progress
The columnist at Bay View Pitas, a scenic and popular spot in the Pitas district. After a fairly busy month of Kaamatan, I welcomed the opportunity to take a break from the city. Looking for a destination off the beaten path, my friend Edward Olaybal and I settled, almost impulsively, on Pitas. We had initially considered Kundasang, but the prospect of heavy traffic on 2 June, a public holiday, quickly ruled it out. Pitas, on the other hand, offered something different. Although often overlooked, it is a district frequently described as rich in natural beauty yet marked by persistent poverty. I had never been there, and that unfamiliarity was precisely what made it intriguing. It seemed the perfect place to explore; a drive into a remote part of Sabah. A row of shops at Pitas town. Upon arrival, it took only a few hours for me to gain a revealing glimpse into the current state of this remote district. I observed the limited basic amenities and visited three local attractions: Rosob Pitas Mangrove, Bay View Pitas and Dataran Bengkoka. Unfortunately, all three were in a state of neglect, reflecting the broader struggles of this underdeveloped region. While Pitas still boasts undeniable natural beauty, the lack of maintenance and infrastructure significantly undermines its tourism potential. Pitas is located in the northernmost part of Sabah, approximately 180 kilometres from Kota Kinabalu. The journey takes four to five hours by road, depending on weather and road conditions. With an estimated population of 45,000, mostly Rungus, Bajau and other indigenous communities, the district is known for its rolling hills, rich mangrove ecosystems and a scenic coastline along the Sulu Sea. A market at Pitas town. Despite these natural and cultural riches, Pitas remains one of the poorer districts in Malaysia. It ranks among the bottom ten in the nation in terms of economic development. The poverty rate exceeds 25 per cent, far above the national average of 6 per cent. Per capita income remains dismally low, with many households earning below RM1,000 per month. The local economy largely revolves around subsistence farming, small-scale fishing and informal trading. Perhaps the most visible sign of Pitas's stagnation is its town centre itself: a modest cluster of only three rows of shops. This relatively small number of shops hardly constitutes the commercial core of a town poised for large-scale economic activities. The limited retail options, sparse banking services and public amenities as well as minimal commercial presence make it difficult to envision meaningful economic expansion without serious intervention. What struck me most during my visit was not just the visible underdevelopment, but the overwhelming sense of unrealised potential. Pitas is not without resources; its fertile lands, natural beauty and strong cultural identity are invaluable. But they remain untapped owing to poor infrastructure, insufficient market access and chronic underinvestment. Basic services such as healthcare, education and transport are inadequate or inconsistent, especially in interior villages. Agriculture and fisheries form the backbone of the local economy. Villagers grow rice, maize, tapioca and vegetables, but poor road conditions and lack of logistical support mean most produce is consumed locally or sold cheaply. Fishermen, too, face severe challenges, including outdated gear and the absence of cold storage and processing facilities. There is limited involvement in rubber tapping and oil palm cultivation, but returns are generally low and unreliable. Tourism could be a vital economic driver, but it remains underdeveloped. The Rosob Mangrove Forest could become a leading eco-tourism site, Bay View Pitas offers spectacular coastal panoramas and Dataran Bengkoka could serve as a cultural and community hub. However, all three attractions currently suffer from neglect; damaged facilities, poor signage and lack of maintenance discourage both visitors and investors. One of the most pressing issues is the lack of standard tourist accommodations in Pitas. The town does not offer any hotels or resorts of international standards. There are no lodgings that meet the expectations of domestic or international tourists. Even homestays, where they exist, are limited in number and poorly promoted. Without proper accommodations, visitors are unlikely to extend their stay, and the district cannot capitalise on its tourism potential. To revitalise Pitas, a multi-faceted development approach is essential. Infrastructure is a top priority. Many interior villages still lack paved roads, reliable electricity and access to clean water. Upgrading road networks will not only improve connectivity but also reduce the isolation of rural communities. Digital infrastructure must also be prioritised. Providing fast and reliable internet access can bridge information gaps, support education and open new economic opportunities. Developing agro-based industries would be a game-changer. Small-scale processing facilities for local produce can add value, create jobs and reduce economic leakage. Pitas could develop niche products such as dried seafood, smoked fish, coconut-based goods or traditional herbal remedies. Government agencies, private companies and NGOs should collaborate to provide capital, training and market access for such ventures. Sustainable tourism is another viable pathway. With its natural environment and indigenous culture, Pitas is well-suited for eco- and cultural tourism. Realising this potential, however, will require investment in infrastructure, especially accommodations and community engagement. Tourism packages could include mangrove tours, handicraft demonstrations, cultural performances and traditional cuisine. Signage, sanitation, basic transport and safety features must also be addressed. The most important ingredient, however, is human capital. The people of Pitas are hardworking and resourceful, but they need opportunities to grow. Educational improvements at the primary and secondary levels are essential. Additionally, vocational training centres must be expanded to provide skills in carpentry, food processing, mechanics, hospitality and digital technology. These skills should be complemented by entrepreneurship programmes to help locals start and sustain small businesses. Government support is essential at both state and federal levels. Development funds for high-poverty districts like Pitas must be disbursed efficiently and transparently. However, development cannot rest on the government alone. Civil society and the private sector also have crucial roles to play. NGOs can support capacity building and community empowerment, while companies can explore responsible and inclusive investment opportunities. Another key pillar is financial inclusion. Many residents remain unbanked or underbanked, which restricts their ability to save, borrow or insure themselves against economic shocks. Expanding microfinance, savings cooperatives and affordable insurance schemes can offer financial stability. Programmes such as Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM) and TEKUN Nasional can be scaled and adapted to meet local needs. Healthcare must also be strengthened. While Pitas does have a district hospital, it is far from adequate for the entire population, especially those in remote areas. Mobile health clinics, telemedicine services and rural outreach programmes are needed to improve access. Prioritising maternal and child health, in particular, will lead to better long-term outcomes. The youth of Pitas represent an untapped force for transformation. Leadership camps, tech bootcamps and digital training initiatives can inspire young people to become change agents. With proper mentorship and tools, they can modernise agriculture, develop tourism products and even launch start-ups that cater to regional and online markets. Environmental protection must be part of the development equation. Conservation of mangrove forests, reforestation and sustainable farming practices should be embedded in all planning efforts. These are not just ecological imperatives; they can also bring economic benefits through green funding, eco-tourism and carbon offset projects. My brief visit to Pitas was both sobering and inspiring. While it is among the poorer districts in Malaysia, it is rich in natural assets, cultural heritage and human resilience. What it lacks is a framework for inclusive, well-coordinated development. With the right mix of political will, strategic investment and grassroots involvement, Pitas can defy the odds and chart a course toward sustainable prosperity. Pitas should no longer remain at the periphery of development. With targeted policies, strategic investments and meaningful partnerships, it holds the potential to become a blueprint for rural transformation. The challenge lies not in its remoteness, but in our collective willingness to bridge the gap. Turning long-standing neglect into sustainable opportunity is not just possible, it is necessary. And perhaps one day, during the festive season, a traffic jam in and out of Pitas will be seen not as an inconvenience, but as a welcome sign of its long-overdue revival. Footnote Dr Richard A. Gontusan is a Human Resource Skills Training and Investment Consultant. Apart from his personal observations, the information presented in this article is sourced from publicly available materials. The views expressed in this article are his own and do not necessarily reflect those of The Borneo Post.
New Straits Times
30-05-2025
- Politics
- New Straits Times
Fadillah extends Kaamatan Festival greetings, urges Malaysians to preserve harmony
KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has called on the people to continue to defend Malaysia's harmony in diversity, strengthen the ties of brotherhood and preserve unity. He said this when wishing a Happy Kaamatan Festival to the entire Kadazan Dusun, Murut and Rungus community, particularly in Sabah, who are celebrating this harvest festival on May 30 and 31. He added that just like other festivals, the Kaamatan Festival is a manifestation of the racial diversity and cultural richness of the community in Malaysia, who live in peace and harmony regardless of racial, religious and cultural background. "With its theme of 'Kaamatan For All' let's celebrate the Kaamatan Festival with joy, strengthen ties of kinship and be grateful for the sustenance and good harvest. "May our harvest this year and the years to come continue to overflow, bringing with it goodness, success and prosperity to all. "Happy Kaamatan Festival, Kotobian Tadau Tagazo Do Kaamatan," Fadillah, who is also the Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, posted on Facebook today. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi also took to Facebook to extend the same greetings, saying he hopes that this festive season brings overflowing cheerfulness, love and sustenance to everyone. "Happy Kaamatan Festival and Gawai Day to all friends and families in Sabah and Sarawak. "Both these festivals illustrate the richness of culture, customs and traditions and are symbols of harmony in the diversity of the people of Malaysia.
Barnama
30-05-2025
- Politics
- Barnama
Fadillah Extends Kaamatan Festival Greetings, Urges Malaysians To Preserve Harmony
GENERAL KUALA LUMPUR, May 30 (Bernama) -- Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof has called on the people to continue to defend Malaysia's harmony in diversity, strengthen the ties of brotherhood and preserve unity. He said this when wishing a Happy Kaamatan Festival to the entire Kadazan Dusun, Murut and Rungus community, particularly in Sabah, who are celebrating this harvest festival on May 30 and 31. He added that just like other festivals, the Kaamatan Festival is a manifestation of the racial diversity and cultural richness of the community in Malaysia, who live in peace and harmony regardless of racial, religious and cultural background. "With its theme of 'Kaamatan For All' let's celebrate the Kaamatan Festival with joy, strengthen ties of kinship and be grateful for the sustenance and good harvest. "May our harvest this year and the years to come continue to overflow, bringing with it goodness, success and prosperity to all. "Happy Kaamatan Festival, Kotobian Tadau Tagazo Do Kaamatan,' Fadillah, who is also the Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, posted on Facebook today. Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi also took to Facebook to extend the same greetings, saying he hopes that this festive season brings overflowing cheerfulness, love and sustenance to everyone. "Happy Kaamatan Festival and Gawai Day to all friends and families in Sabah and Sarawak. "Both these festivals illustrate the richness of culture, customs and traditions and are symbols of harmony in the diversity of the people of Malaysia.
The Star
30-04-2025
- General
- The Star
Sabah communities encouraged to cultivate their lands for future generations, not sell
KOTA KINABALU: Locals with native lands are advised to develop them instead of selling, as land is an asset that can be handed down to their children and can help support their livelihood when cultivated, says Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam. The Deputy Chief Minister II, who is also the state Local Government and Housing Minister, said some people wait 10 years or more to receive their grants or titles. 'Do not sell your lands as these are assets that should be preserved and cultivated,' said the Deputy Chief Minister II, who is also the state Local Government and Housing Minister, after handing over 205 land grants under the Sabah Native Land Services Programme (Pantas) in Kg Tambatuon in Kota Belud on Tuesday(April 29). Joachim stated that land is important for the local natives, particularly the Kadazandusun, Murut, and Rungus communities. 'Some people wait 10 years before finally getting their land titles, before this Pantas programme. We thank the Land and Surveys Department for their effort in preparing these grants smoothly,' he said at the event, which some 300 villagers attended. Speaking about the land grants, he said the titles were only issued to participating applicants whose lands had been worked on and land that did not involve areas of dispute or owned lands. 'If disputes on the lands apply, Pantas will not be implemented. Local community leaders must identify and provide the information needed,' said Joachim.
Borneo Post
27-04-2025
- Borneo Post
Challenges, solutions for Sabah's cottage industry
The columnist with one of his handicrafts created when he was a teenager. It is crafted from coconut shells, bamboo strips and sago tree barks. When I was a teenager several decades ago, school holidays were an opportunity for me to explore my creativity. I spent many afternoons painting in watercolour and crafting items from natural materials like bamboo, sago, coconut and seashells. A few of those artworks and handicrafts have stood the test of time; they still occupy space in my living room today. Back then, visitors to our home, mostly my father's friends, often expressed surprise and admiration for the work of a teenager. Some even offered to buy the pieces. But my father declined on my behalf, as most of them were one-of-a-kind and held sentimental value. On reflection now, I sometimes wonder what might have happened had I taken those early creative pursuits more seriously. Could I have turned a hobby into a small business? Perhaps opened a local gift shop featuring handmade products, offering tourists genuine souvenirs made in Sabah, rather than imported mass-produced items? While I stopped pursuing that path, I believe the idea remains relevant today within the context of the cottage industry, particularly in Sabah. Sabah is renowned for its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and rich traditions. In the backdrop of its lush rainforests and vibrant communities, the cottage industry thrives as an essential component of the local economy, especially among rural and indigenous populations. The cottage industry, typically comprising small-scale, home-based businesses that rely on local resources and traditional skills, provides livelihoods to thousands across Sabah. However, while it contributes to cultural preservation and income generation, it faces various challenges that hamper its growth and profitability. Understanding the various forms of the cottage industry in Sabah, the problems it encounters, and identifying practical solutions can help unlock its full economic potential. The cottage industry in Sabah is as diverse as its people, reflecting the unique cultures and resources of the state. One of the most visible sectors of the cottage industry in Sabah involves handicrafts and souvenirs. Indigenous communities such as the Kadazan, Dusun, Murut, Rungus and Bajau produce handcrafted items, including beadwork, woven baskets (wakid), batik fabrics, wood carvings and traditional musical instruments like the sompoton. For instance, in Matunggong, Kudat, the Rungus women are known for their intricate beadwork and weaving, which are sold under the Sabah Handicraft Centre brand and featured in local cultural festivals. These crafts are not only decorative but also hold cultural significance and are in demand among tourists and collectors. Matunggong is also famous for crafting traditional musical gongs. Many Sabahan households also engage in small-scale food processing, producing traditional delicacies such as kuih cincin, pinjaram, salted fish, hill rice wine (tapai or lihing), banana chips and smoked meat. In Kampung Ratau, Inanam, local women's cooperatives produce tapai using traditional fermentation techniques, supplying local restaurants and cultural events. Likewise, in Papar, a growing number of families package and sell banana chips and kuih cincin under small local brands that are now stocked in supermarkets like Servay and Bataras. Traditional textile and weaving practices are also a notable part of the cottage industry. Among the Rungus and Bajau Laut communities, weaving colourful garments and accessories is an art form passed down through generations. In Semporna, Bajau Laut women weave traditional kain bunga samada, which are used in weddings and rituals and increasingly sold as decorative items. In Kudat, local cooperatives help artisans sell handwoven fabrics at the Rungus Longhouse and during the annual Tamu Besar Kota Belud. Sabah's rich biodiversity further supports the production of natural and herbal products. Many rural entrepreneurs have turned to producing lemongrass oils, coconut-based beauty products, herbal teas and traditional medicines. For example, the company 'Nusabah Enterprise' in Tuaran produces coconut oil-based soaps and skin balms using traditional techniques, now marketed at Sabah Fest and selected eco-lodges. The agro-based cottage industry, such as small-scale processing of cocoa, coffee, vanilla and honey, is also common. In Ranau and Tambunan, farmers have formed cooperatives to process and market highland honey and Arabica coffee beans under the brand 'Tagal Coffee,' sold to both domestic and Singaporean markets. Despite its importance, the cottage industry in Sabah faces numerous obstacles that limit its ability to grow and become economically viable on a larger scale. Many small-scale entrepreneurs lack qualification or access to financial institutions for loans owing to the informal nature of their businesses. Without adequate capital, upgrading equipment, purchasing raw materials, or scaling production becomes difficult. For instance, in rural Pitas, many honey gatherers rely on traditional tools and are unable to afford modern extraction or packaging equipment, reducing their efficiency and output. Most cottage industry operators rely on traditional knowledge and lack formal training in business management, accounting, packaging, or marketing. The lack of formal training limits their ability to increase efficiency, reach wider markets, or maintain consistent quality. In Kampung Penampang Proper, despite having high-quality lihing, many producers are unable to scale owing to inconsistent bottling practices and a lack of branding. Poor road connectivity, unreliable electricity supply, and limited access to internet in some rural areas hinder production and transportation. For example, in villages along the Crocker Range, weavers and food processors often face delays and spoilage owing to the difficulty of transporting goods to urban centres like Kota Kinabalu. Entrepreneurs often find it challenging to bring their products to wider markets, let alone export them. While the demand for unique and artisanal products is growing, many producers lack connection to larger markets. They often depend on word-of-mouth, local fairs, or intermediaries who take a large share of profits. Without proper quality control and product certification, it is difficult for many products to penetrate supermarkets or international markets. For instance, a tapai producer in Tenom struggled to obtain a food safety certification required for distribution in larger grocery chains. Locally handmade products face stiff competition from cheaper, mass-produced imports. Consumers may choose lower-priced items over traditional ones, even if the latter are culturally rich or of higher quality. Additionally, many younger Sabahans migrate to urban areas or seek employment in the formal sector, leaving behind the traditional skills that fuel the cottage industry. This generational gap poses a long-term risk to the survival of certain crafts and practices, such as sompoton making in Tambunan or traditional bamboo carving in Keningau. To make the cottage industry in Sabah more economically viable, a multi-pronged approach involving the government, private sector, NGOs and community stakeholders is essential. Financial institutions and government agencies such as TEKUN Nasional, Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM), and SME Corp should simplify procedures and design financial products tailored to the cottage industry. In Keningau, a group of women entrepreneurs were able to expand their production of natural herbal balms after receiving micro-loans through AIM's outreach programme. Organising workshops and training programmes on financial literacy, branding, digital marketing, packaging, and basic bookkeeping can empower cottage industry operators. In Kota Marudu, the PACOS Trust has worked with rural women to teach soap-making and essential oil distillation while also training them in pricing, budgeting, and social media marketing. Upgrading rural infrastructure such as roads, power and internet is crucial for the cottage industry to thrive. Investment in rural connectivity not only facilitates logistics but also allows entrepreneurs to engage in e-commerce and digital platforms. In Ranau, fibre-optic upgrades in selected kampungs enabled several cottage entrepreneurs to begin selling their products online via Facebook and Shopee, increasing their income significantly. The integration of cottage industry products into digital marketplaces can greatly expand market reach. Government initiatives like the 'eUsahawan' and 'Go eCommerce' programmes help micro-entrepreneurs in Sabah set up digital stores. For example, a herbal soap maker in Tuaran successfully reached customers in Kuala Lumpur after joining the 'Desamall@KPLB' programme. Government and state agencies can assist in helping producers attain necessary certifications and implement standardisation processes. Establishing a 'Made in Sabah' or 'Bornean Heritage' branding initiative would help differentiate Sabahan products in domestic and global markets. A good example is the Sabah Craft Council, which helps artists obtain national-level recognition and market access via craft expos. The cottage industry can be integrated with Sabah's thriving tourism sector. Establishing cultural villages, craft centres, and eco-tourism homestays allows visitors to witness the making of products and purchase them directly. Mari Mari Cultural Village and Monsopiad Cultural Village in Penampang are notable examples where traditional craft making is part of the tourist experience. Encouraging cottage industry operators to form cooperatives or business clusters enables pooling of resources, collective marketing, and access to government support. In Beaufort, a tapioca cracker cooperative has allowed members to buy cassava in bulk, use shared processing machines, and standardise packaging. Schools and community centres should incorporate traditional arts and crafts in their curriculum or extracurricular activities. At the same time, using modern tools to make traditional crafts more appealing to younger generations can bridge the gap between heritage and innovation. For example, younger artisans in Tawau are experimenting with digital art to complement traditional batik techniques. Collaboration with established businesses can offer mentorship, capital and market access. Companies such as Yayasan PETRONAS have adopted rural entrepreneurs as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes, providing both training and marketing channels. The state government can play a greater role by enacting policies that protect and promote the cottage industry, offering tax incentives, and recognising excellence through awards or certifications. Additionally, facilitating access to international trade fairs and expos would help place Sabahan products on the world map. The cottage industry in Sabah is more than an economic activity; it is an embodiment of cultural identity, community resilience, and self-sufficiency. Despite its potential, it remains underutilised owing to a range of structural and economic challenges. However, with strategic support from all stakeholders such as the government, civil society, private sector, and the communities themselves, the sector can evolve into a dynamic contributor to Sabah's economy. Empowering the men and women behind these small enterprises with tools, training, technology and trust will not only enhance their livelihoods but also preserve the vibrant traditions of Sabah for generations to come. Footnote Dr Richard A. Gontusan is a Human Resource Skill Training and Investment Consultant. His views expressed in this article are not necessarily the views of The Borneo Post.
