10/09/2025

WEDNESDAY | SEPT 10, 2025

11

LETTERS letters@thesundaily.com

To Malaysia with love A S the calendar blooms anew, we take great joy in celebrating birthdays, anniversaries and other personal milestones. nostalgic moments. It gives me great pleasure to say that the brightest among them are the memories of Malaysians coming together in unison, supporting one another through difficult and easier times, rising above our differences in skin colour and ideologies.

Over time, I have realised the futility of constantly protesting these issues. Moreover, such divisive policies are not entirely without some merit. With the people united in one spirit and one voice – eager for political stability, peace, harmony and prosperity – nothing can deter the government of the day from working tirelessly and consistently to achieve shared aspirations and goals. We should focus on creating a less corrupt society and nation, address the rising cost of living and develop workable solutions and sustainable policies to uplift the socioeconomic well-being of all citizens. Develop programmes that instil in our youths values and principles such as respect and kindness to help create a positive and safe environment. This will help combat social problems and reduce aggression, including bullying, in schools and other learning institutions. Finally, true patriotism goes far beyond waving a flag or reciting an anthem; it is love for one’s country expressed through responsibility, care and integrity. It is not blind loyalty but a commitment to seeing one’s nation flourish with justice, compassion and dignity. Patriotism is a lifelong devotion to the well-being of one’s country. “A nation’s culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people.” – Mahatma Gandhi Happy Malaysia Day.

fostered a resilient socioeconomic system. This laid a strong and unbiased foundation for my personal growth, which continues to this day. It has provided me with financial stability in livelihood and retirement, as well as the opportunity and fulfilment of raising and educating my children to become professional and independent individuals. Hand in hand with my dear late spouse, this was possible because Malaysia has always been, and I continue to believe is, a land of opportunities and rich natural resources. Lastly, my Malaysia Day message to today’s political leadership is this: occasional floods may come and recede, a pandemic like Covid may pass, to name just a few challenges. Yet, the most unique and treasured asset of a diverse Malaysia remains the unity among her people. Affable, accepting and accommodating of one another – at the same time, I acknowledge that our views and choices may differ on many issues. Nevertheless, the majority of Malaysians demonstrate the maturity to agree or disagree and to express their opinions openly, all while maintaining peace and respect. Secondly, I believe I speak for like minded Malaysians when I say that, as a pragmatic person – especially one from a minority community – I have come to accept certain realities, though I must admit I was initially resigned to them.

“True patriotism goes far beyond waving a flag or reciting an anthem; it is love for one’s country expressed through responsibility,

But in the late 1940s or early 1950s, Kg Ratau achieved what many neighbouring villages did not; it became a hub for formal education and the spread of Islam. Kg Ratau and SK Ratau played a vital role in opening the door to formal education for the Dusun community in Ranau, nurturing generations of leaders and producing notable national figures with roots in the district. The secluded village also became an example for others by prioritising education while also serving as a centre for Islamic propagation among the Dusun people. According to records, SK Ratau – formerly known as Government Primary School Ratau – was established in 1948 as a modest wooden structure with limited facilities. SK Ratau used to be in Tontolob, near Kg Terolobou, but was later moved to Kg Ratau for a more central and convenient location for students from surrounding villages. Amir Jahali was the first headmaster in Tontolob. While the primary school served children from Kg Ratau, Sosondoton and Terolobou, it also attracted students from neighbouring villages such as Kg Piasau, Tudan, Toboh, Kemburongoh and Karanaan, as it was the only school within reach. Prominent figures who began their With Malaysia Day just around the corner, we find equal delight in honouring and commemorating the anniversary of our nation’s birth. As Malaysians, our love, loyalty and reverence for this nation run deep in our hearts. Malaysia reminds us of the sacrifices made by our forefathers, the blessings we enjoy today and the hope we carry forward together. As someone who values ancestral roots, quality of life and meaningful experiences, the foremost feeling I hold for this generous land is deep gratitude. As a fourth-generation citizen, with roots stretching back over 60 years, this land has offered my loved ones and me an abundance of opportunities, resources and, most importantly, the freedom to practise our culture and religion. Post-independence, reigned by wise and discerning leaders, the nation opened its arms with generosity and kindness to our elders. Thanks to their diligence and commitment, not only as members of society but as Malaysians, we flourished. Nostalgic and poignant memories of my ancestors’ devotion, dedication and sacrifices to carve out their efficacious future for their scions are ingrained in my core. As I look back, I see my past painted in various shades of colours of milestones, imbued in poignant and

A special Malaysian characteristic worthy of mention is our casual usage of terms like kak , auntie, dik and bang as informal forms of address, which express and celebrate the closeness and warmth we share with one another. Notably, Malaysia is a melting pot of vibrant culture and cuisines. We are fortunate to experience and be part of aplenty of festivals – religious and non religious – throughout the year. From the preparation and the creation of praise-worthy delicacies to adorning traditional garments and showcasing unique, colourful decorations set to melodious music – every element that accentuates these festivities is alluring and creates rich and meaningful personal memories. Last but not least, if and when this letter finds its humble readership, the younger ones among them may accuse me of speaking from a place of privilege. To that, I say a resounding yes. I am indeed living a life many would envy. I take pride and joy in saying that all of this was possible because I grew up during the 1960s and 70s – the era of Muhibah , a word whose spirit was a daily mantra throughout my upbringing. A conflict-free environment, supported by sound and stable leadership, that has

care and integrity.

Prema Mammen Semenyih

Kg Ratau – from humble beginnings to lasting influence KG RATAU could have remained just another remote Dusun village in Ranau, where villagers endured a 36km trek through forests and mountains to reach town. education at SK Ratau include former federal minister Tan Sri Kasitah Gaddam, current Sabah State Finance Minister Datuk Seri Masidi Manjun and former Sabah state education director Datuk Muhiddin Yussin. Ratau from 1962 to 1966. “I remember that SK Ratau being regarded as the best primary school in the Ranau district, not only academically but also in sports, especially volleyball,” he said.

Among the most respected figures in the history of Islam among the Dusun community of Kg Ratau was Mohd Ali Kandalis, a native Dusun. He converted to Islam in 1943 through Raden Mohamad Syarif Ambek or Mandur Syarif at the Lobou estate in Tuaran. Several other villagers from Kg Ratau followed his example. Mohd Ali became a central figure in spreading Islam and sharing knowledge of traditional healings among the Dusun villagers in Kg Ratau, including surrounding areas like Sosondoton, Togudon and Karanaan. The Dusun (now termed as Kadazan-Dusun), one of the largest indigenous groups in Sabah, are widely known for their rich cultural traditions, ancestral belief and historical connection to the land. Yet, what is less recognised is the presence of a significant number or Dusun who practice Islam as their faith. Their journey towards Islam is a story deeply rooted in migration, education and community leadership, beginning with Raden. Historical accounts suggest that this Javanese figure, often referred to by local leaders, played pioneering role in introducing Islam to the Dusun of Ranau. Through his teachings, a dedicated

Kasitah attended SK Ratau from 1956 to 1959, later becoming the school’s first graduate. Masidi completed his primary education in just three and a half years, from 1958 to 1961. “I started school at SK Ratau at the age of eight. At that time, textbooks or reference materials were practically non-existent,” recalled Masidi, who was born at Kg Terolobou. According to Datuk Nordin Siman, former mayor of Kota Kinabalu City, his late father, Siman Yaakub – who once taught at SK Ratau – often said Masidi was a gifted student who advanced quickly through his studies. Masidi went on to obtain a Bachelor of Laws degree from University of London in 1977, and in 1979 was called to the Bar at Lincoln’s Inn, London. Those who know him say that Masidi has always emphasised the importance of education in rural development. Nordin also recalled that his late father began teaching at SK Ratau in Jan 1, 1958. Siman Yaakub was appointed SK Ratau headmaster on April 4, 1960 and later became headmaster at SK Ranau on Jan 11, 1963. Muhiddin, who served as Sabah state education director from January 2010 to Dec 31, 2012, studied at SK

Kg Ratau and SK Ratau played a vital role in opening the door to formal education for the Dusun community in Ranau, nurturing generations of leaders and producing notable national figures with roots in the district. – PIC COURTESY OF EMIN MADI

through this unique historical pathway. Today, it is not uncommon to encounter Dusun Muslims across Sabah who trace their religious heritage back to this early chapter of conversion. The story serves as a reminder of the community’s ability to embrace new belief while preserving their cultural identity. This heritage remains a living testimony to Sabah’s cultural diversity – a narrative of faith, migration and the continuing bond between tradition and spiritual growth. Emin Madi

student, Mohd Ali Kandalis, emerged as key propagator of the faith. Mohd Ali was instrumental in spreading Islamic teaching among his community during a time of cultural transition. As Islam took root in Ranau, migration patterns shaped the growth of faith. Many Dusun Muslim began moving beyond their traditional homeland, establishing new settlements in Keningau, Sook and Tamparuli and other parts of Sabah. Over time, some families even extended their presence to other regions of Malaysia, carrying with them the legacy of faith introduced