Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak (centre) trying the steps of the traditional ‘sumazau’ dance at the 14th Pesta Kaamatan at the Putra World Trade Centre yesterday. KUALA LUMPUR: A surprise visit by Datuk Seri Najib Razak to the 14th Harvest Festival added to the festive cheer at Pesta Kaamatan yesterday afternoon. The prime minister dropped by the Putra World Trade Centre to join in the celebration and emphasise that his 1Malaysia concept was not a mere political statement.”It is easy to say this (prime minister for all), but we must add substance to this. That is why I introduced the concept of 1Malaysia,” he said.“Every Malaysian must embark on the journey of realising the concept.“We can be different in so many levels but, most importantly, we are together. “I am confident we will achieve this concept and when we do, Malaysia will be truly united and prosperous.”The government will do what it can to help everyone.”Najib had only confirmed his attendance at the Harvest Festival, organised by the KadazanDusun Cultural Association (KDCA) of Klang Valley, in the morning.“I was invited by KDCA adviser Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili (science, technology and innovations minister) two days ago but I was only able to confirm my attendance this morning. My presence here is part of my walkabout, which I have embarked on since taking over (as prime minister).” Najib even tried the traditional sumazau dance on stage with KDCA chairman Datuk Seri Joseph Pairin Kitingan and Ongkili. Since Najib’s visit was unexpected, Pairin apologised for not having Najib’s name on the stage backdrop. Najib replied that he did not want his presence to be measured by the beat of the kompang, the rolling out of the red carpet or the stage backdrop that carried his name. Source: Adapted From NST Online, 3/5/2009

KOTA KINABALU: Rarely seen rituals usually performed by priestesses and healers of the indigenous tribes of Sabah will be the main attraction during the month-long Sabah Fest, to be held in May. Masidi (2nd from right) points at a poster used to promote the ‘Mystical Sabah’ event after the press conference yesterday. Standing close to him are Sabah Cultural Board dancers clad in traditional Lotud Dusun, Bajau and Rungus attire. Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister, Datuk Masidi Manjun said this year’s Sabah Fest, which has been themed ‘Mystical Sabah’ will showcase the spiritual rituals of the indigenous folks of Sabah, in particular the Dusun-Lotud people from Tuaran. The ‘Mystical Sabah’ will take place on May 2- 3 at the Magellan Grand Ballroom of the Sutera Habour Resort here. The main attraction during the event is a one-hour show starting at 8pm sharp at the ballroom during the two days. The premier show on May 3 will be attended by the Head of State, Tun Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Ahmadshah Abdullah as well as the Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Musa Haji Aman. The show will highlight a handful of Sabah’s ethnic groups through a presentation of traditional songs and dances combined with a display of rarely-seen rituals and scenes from their daily lives. At the same time, a special segment on the ‘Tamu culture of Sabah’ will also be showcased, said Masidi. “In the olden days, a sacrificial offering is often made before the start of a tamu to ward against any untoward incidents such as cheating or illegal trade being carried out there,” he said. At the same time, visitors to the Sabah Fest will be able to witness skilled craftsmen of Sabah at work during the handicraft exhibition which will be held at the foyer of the Magellan Grand Ballroom from 10am to 10pm. On May 4-11, the Sabah Fest celebrations will be extended to the Sabah Museum Heritage Village whereby visitors will be entertained by various tribes through their traditional performances as well as enjoy the local delicacies. There will also be rarely-seen rituals and rites performed by healers and high priestesses, such as the ‘Tumoron’ – a healing ceremony of the Rungus people and a mock wedding display of the Dusun Lotud ethic group, a ceremony known as ‘Matod’. The Bajau Kubang community will perform the ‘Magpa’gal’ a traditional healing ceremony. The grand finale of the Sabah Fest is on May 31 with the Tadau Kaamatan Festival. Masidi said that the Sabah Fest is expected to lure a lot of visitors into the State, including tourists from overseas, particularly from Australia and Brunei. He added that the fest is one of the State’s most anticipated cultural extravaganzas showcasing Sabah’s multiracial society, cultures and traditions.

Source: Adapted From New Sabah Times, 10th April, 2009 ]]> http://kdca.org.my/archives/309/feed 0 http://kdca.org.my/archives/294 http://kdca.org.my/archives/294#comments Sun, 19 Apr 2009 03:40:03 +0000 Allan Dumbong http://kdca.org.my/archives/294 Adalah dimaklumkan bahawa Sekretariat Perpaduan, Biro Kebudayaan Sabah & Sarawak UTHM telah menganjurkan program Malam Pesta Kaamatan dan Gawai UTHM 2009 seperti butiran berikut: Tarikh : 4 April 2009 (Sabtu)Masa : 7.45 Malam – 11.30 MalamTempat : Dewan Tunku Ibrahim Ismail UTHMTetamu Jemputan : YBhg. Datuk Richard Bainon (Timbalan Presiden Persatuan Kebudayaan Kadazandusun Sabah)Source: Universiti Tun Hussien Onn’s Website  www.uthm.edu.my (Posted by: Allan Dumbong) ]]> http://kdca.org.my/archives/294/feed 0 http://kdca.org.my/archives/291 http://kdca.org.my/archives/291#comments Wed, 15 Apr 2009 10:58:14 +0000 KDCA KV http://kdca.org.my/archives/291 Kopivosian!

Pesta Kaamatan Ke-14 Klang Valley 2009 dengan sukacita menjemput anda pada:

Tarikh : 2 Mei, 2009 (Sabtu)
Masa : 12.30 Tengahari
Tempat : PWTC (Dewan Hussein Onn)
Tiket : RM5.00 Seorang (Termasuk Makanan Ringan & Layak untuk Cabutan Tiket bertuah)
Pakaian: Tradisi / Kemas / Kasual Kemas

Meja VIP dijual pada harga RM1,000 / RM2,000 / RM3,000 / RM5,000

Sila layari laman web KDCAKV untuk maklumat lanjut.

Jumpa anda di PWTC & Kotobian Tadau tagayo do Kaamatan 2009.

AJK
KDCA Klang Valley

Info:
019-3700521 Setiausaha
019-3880309 Pen. Setiausaha
013-3808800 Timb. Pengerusi
Email: kdcakv@gmail.com
Laman:
http://kdcakv.kadazandusun.my
http://kdcakv.webs.com

KDCA Klang Valley menjemput anda ke Sodop Sugandoi Peringkat Klang Valley pada:

Tarikh : 25 April, 2009 jam 7.30 malam
Tempat: The Zon all Suites residences on the park, Kuala Lumpur (Poolside)
Tiket Masuk: RM40.00 seorang (termasuk makan malam buffet)
Pakaian : Kemas / Kasual Kemas.

Sodop Sugandoi akan diserikan dengan penampilan istimewa 15 finalis Unduk Ngadau Klang valley 2009 dalam pakaian makan malam, serta persembahan istimewa artis popular tempatan.

Tiket boleh ditempah, sila lawati lama http://kdcakv.kadazandusun.my untuk tempahan secara ‘on-line’ atau hubungi ahli jawatankuasa Sodop Sugandoi KV 2009.

Info atau penyertaan:
Julie (Setiausaha) 019-3700521
Cyndy (Pemb. Setiausaha) 019-3880309
Albert (Komiti) 014-636.8880

Kopiwosian.
KDCA Klang Valley
http://kdcakv.kadazandusun.my

Date: 16 Nov 2008 (Sunday)
Time: 2.00 pm
Venue: Conference Room, Hongkod Koisaan.

All newly-elected committee members are compulsory to attend.

For further details, please contact KDCA HQ (088-713696).

PRESIDENT : HUGUAN SIOU YB DATUK SERI PANGLIMA JOSEPH PAIRIN DATUK KITINGAN

DEPUTY PRESIDENTS :

1. YB DATUK DR. MAXIMUS J ONGKILI (E)
2. GUN DATUK DR. JEFFREY G DATUK KITINGAN (E)
3. GUN DATUK CLARENCE BONGKOS MALAKUN (A)
4. GUN DR OTHMAN MINUDIN (A)
5. GUN DATUK RICHARD BAINON (A)

 VICE PRESIDENTS:

1. ZANDI JORNAH MOZIHIM (E)
2. ZANDI DR. AZLINA EKAT (E)
3. GUN JAMES BAGAH (E)
4. GUN RAYNER F UDONG (E)
5. ZANDI DR LUNGKIAM DAMBUL (E)
6. GUN JOHN CHYRSO MASABAL (E)
7. GUN JOHN ANTHONY (A)
8. GUN GEORGE DAMINAUS ALUDAH (A)
9. GUN SEBASTIAN ANJIM (A)
10. To be Appointed.

SECRETARY-GENERAL : GUN SUMAN YASAMBUN (A)

ASST. SECRETARY GENERAL: To be appointed.

TREASURER-GENERAL: GUN JOSPEH PAULUS LANTIP (A)

ASST. TREASURER-GENERAL: GUN HARRY I. BEATTY (A)

ORGANISING SECRETARY: GUN JOHN PAUJIK (A).

ASST. ORGANISING SECRETARY: GUN JAMES M. MUYAU (A)

 COMMITTEE MEMBERS :

1. GUN DATUK LOUIS RAMPAS (E)
2. GUN DANIEL KINSIK (E)
3. GUN DATUK JOHN OT. GHANIE (E)
4. GUN PATRICK GURITOM (E)
5. GUN ALLAN GUIM DUMBONG (E)
6. GUN DATUK JAMES GHANI (E)
7. GUN DATUK JOHN ANGIAN (E)
8. GUN GERARD LANJUAT (E)
9. ZANDI CHRISTINA JOHN LUAN (E)
10. GUN JAMES SIGOH (E)
11. GUN DR NICHOLAS J GUNTOBON (E)
12. ZANDI ROSENANI SOGONDU (A)
13. GUN AUGUSTINE SAANG (A)
14. GUN LAWRENCE JOMIJI (A)
15. GUN DR MARKUS TAKONG (A)
16. GUN ANTHONY BASEL LEONG (A)
17. GUN AMAN SIROM SIMBUNA (A)
18. GUN JEOFFREY EKOL (A)
19. GUN DATUK KIMJUS DUIM (A)
20. GUN JACK NOINTIN (A)
21. To be appointed.

JAWATAN PRESIDEN
1. HUGUAN SIOU DATUK SERI PANGLIMA JOSEPH PAIRIN DATUK KITINGAN

CALON-CALON JAWATAN TIMBALAN PRESIDEN (PILIH DUA CALON SAHAJA)

1. DATUK DR MAXIMUS J ONGKILI
2. DATUK DR JEFFREY DATUK KITINGAN
3. DR SAIMAN SANDAH
4. DATUK PATRICK SINDU

CALON-CALON JAWATAN NAIB PRESIDEN (PILIH 6 CALON SAHAJA)

1. JAMES BAGAH
2. RYNER F. UDONG
3. JORNAH MOZIHIM
4. HARRY I. BEATTY
5. EVELYN GOBILE
6. SEBASTIAN DIRIH ANJIM
7. GEORGE MIJIN
8. JOHN CRYSO MASABAL
9. JOHN PAUJIK
10. JEOFFREY EKOL
11. JOHN ANTHONY
12. DR LUNGKIAM DAMBUL
13. SUMAN YASAMBUN
14. GEORGE SAIDI
15. DR AZALINA EKAT
16. AMAN SIROM SIMBUNA

CALON-CALON AJK PUSAT( PILIH 11 CALON SAHAJA)

1. ANDREW LINTANGAH
2. SIGAM SALIMUN
3. JAMES SUALI
4. DANIEL KINSIK
5. PATRICK GURITOM
6. JAMES SIGOH
7. DATUK JOHN O.T. GHANIE
8. DATUK KIMJUS DUIM
9. DATUK LOUIS RAMPAS
10. ROBERT TAWIK
11. MATLUNAD AGOK
12. JUIS KOUNSULING
13. DATUK JOHN ANGIAN
14. CHRISTINA JOHN LUAN
15. ANTHONY BASIL LEONG
16. GERARD LANJUAT
17. CHRISPINE BIN SULINGIN
18. ALLAN G DUMBONG
19. SIPAIL KOTA
20. LAWRENCE JOMIJI KINSIL
21. FRANCIS JOHN TOTU
22. DR NICHOLAS JAMES GUNTOBON
23. LIZUAN SARABUN
24. JOMINIT KOBUHI
25. SUHAIMIN DUARI
26. ROSNANI SOGONDU
27. NORHAIDA ANOL
28. JULIUS GALA
29. ALBERT ADUN
30. SINDIH GIONG
31. PHILIP BALASOM BASALANT
32. DATUK JAMES GHANI

Twelfth Session

Geneva , February 25 to 29, 2008

addendum to ACCREDITATION OF CERTAIN ORGANIZATIONS

Document prepared by the Secretariat

1. The Annex to document WIPO/GRTKF/IC/12/2, entitled “Accreditation of Certain
Organizations”, lists a number of organizations which requested, before December 7, 2007, to be granted observer status in sessions of the Intergovernmental Committee on Intellectual Property and Genetic Resources, Traditional Knowledge and Folklore, according to the Rules of Procedure.

2. The Annex to the present document lists additional organizations, which have subsequently requested observer status.

3. The Intergovernmental Committee is invited to approve the accreditation of the organizations referred to in the Annex to this document as ad hoc observers, in addition to the organizations listed in the Annex to document WIPO/GRTKF/IC/12/2. 

[Annex follows]

ORGANIZATIONS WHICH HAVE REQUESTEDREPRESENTATION AS OBSERVERSIN SESSIONS OF THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL COMMITTEE   

            BAL’LAME

            Boomalli Aboriginal Artist Co-operative

            Ethio-Africa Diaspora Union Millennium Council

  The Foundation of Support of Iranian Elites (F.S.I.E)

             Grupo de Investigación en Política y Legislación sobre Biodiversidad, Recursos Genéticosy Conocimientos Tradicionales/Policy and Legislation on Biodiversity, Genetic Resources and Traditional Knowledge (PLEBIO) Kadazandusun Cultural Association Sabah, Sarawak Kayan Association and Vibe Australia Pty Ltd (Vibe)

BAL’LAME   

Main objectives of the Organization:

            a)         Promote culture from Niger as well as African culture through the organization of events such as festivals, workshops, etc;

            b)         Contribute to the promotion of Intellectual Property emphasizing its economic and social aspect in particular Copyright, cultural diversity, cultural industries, traditional cultural heritage, etc;

            c)         Act through communication for a change of behavior of peoples from Niger in all other socio-economic fields i.e.:

-         Health, especially endemic diseases;

-         Education (in particular education of young girls);

-         Environment;

-         Promotion of women and gender issues.

  Country in which the Organization is primarily active: 

            Niger Republic.

Full Contact Information:

 BAL’LAMEBP 215NiameyNiger Tel:  (+227) 20 74 31 23/Mobile:  20 96 97 49 43Fax:  (+227) 20 72 23 36Email:  ongbal@yahoo.frjmkgerard@yahoo.fr  Organization Representative:             Mr. Jafarou Malam Kossao, Coordinator.  

Boomalli Aboriginal Artist Co-operative   

Main activities of the Organization:

 Boomalli Aboriginal Artist Co-operative is the only Aboriginal owned and run Contemporary art space in Sydney. Established in 1987, by a group of ten Sydney based artists who came together to open an exhibition space that could be run on their terms.  They refused to be confined by the then existing pre-conceptions and incorrect notions held by the majority of the non-Aboriginal arts community, in what constituted authentic Aboriginal art, in respect to presentation, promotion and representation of urban based artists and their particular artistic practices. Boomalli is a word from three different language groups, Gamileroi, Bundjulung and Wiradjuri, meaning to make a mark; to strike.  The name is the philosophy and Boomalli continues to make its mark within the wider arts community. Today Boomalli has approximately 40 artist members from all areas across NSW.  Mediums of art practice include painting, print-making, photography, new media, sculpture, fabric design and mixed media.  Boomalli artists are creative people who are stretching boundaries, producing cutting edge art, challenging stereotypes and where necessary, being controversial.  Their works illustrate the complexity and diversity of black cultural life andprovide an opportunity for the wider community to participate in contemporary Indigenous cultural expression.  

Main objectives of the Organization:

 Promote and present Contemporary Aboriginal art in an Aboriginal owned and operated art gallery.  

Relationship of the Organization with Intellectual Property Matters: 

Educating artist members and the wider community about existing and needed protection of indigenous intellectual property in relation to Aboriginal artists and communities in Australia. 

 Country in which the Organization is primarily active: 

            Australia.

Full Contact Information:

 Boomalli Gallery55-59 Flood Street LeichhardtPO BOX 176 Westgate NSW 2048 Tel:  (+61) 2 95602541Fax:  (+61) 2 95602566Email:  boomalli@gmail.com

Website:  boomalli.org.au

Organization Representatives:             Mr. Matt Poll, Artistic Director.             Mr. Darrell Sibosado, Program Manager.   

Ethio-Africa Diaspora Union Millennium Council   

Main objectives of the Organization: 

The Ethio-Africa  Diaspora Union Millennium Council, registered as a non governmental organization in Jamaica, comprises the following Mansions/Organizations at present (but is open to and invites the membership of and/or collaboration with all other Rastafari and Afro-centric organizations): Theocracy Reign Order of The NyahbinghiTwelve Tribes of IsraelEthiopia Africa Black International CongressHaile Selassie School of VisionRoyal Ethiopian Judah Coptic ChurchHaile Selassie Theocracy Government Ethiopian Orthodox Church (Maxfield Avenue Branch)Rastafari Centralization Organization (RCO)David HouseInternational PeacemakersDreaded NyahbinghiCamp DavidEthiopian World Federation (EWF)Leonard Howell Foundation 

 The objectives are to:

1. Organize and centralize the global Rastafari community;

2. reserve, promote, protect, authenticate and positively exploit Rastafari traditional cultural expressions, for the economic benefit and sustainability of the global Rastafari community;            

3. Foster appreciation and respect for Rastafari peoples, culture and practices internationally;  

4. Agitate and lobby for Constitutional and legislative change to promote greater recognition and protection of the rights of Rastafari and other indigenous and traditional groups in Jamaica; 

5. Assist other indigenous and traditional peoples of Jamaica and the Caribbean to fully participate in the international indigenous society; 

6. Represent the global Rastafari community on issues related to their culture and heritage, for the co-coordinated and unified agitation, protection and advancement of the Rastafari and African agenda, most notably Repatriation and Reparation;

7. Facilitate all proposals on governance, commerce, heritage and other related activities that will empower the Rastafari movement; 

8. Develop an information technology- driven communication entity that creates formal linkages to national, regional and international individuals and organizations that are a part of and/or support the global Rastafari community;

9. Formalize with WIPO and UNESCO an ongoing forum to develop and implement a Rastafari intellectual property portfolio management plan; 

10. Establish a curriculum for the proper study and teaching of the Rastafari culture; 

11. Reclaim Rastafari culture and heritage sites and establish Rastafari Cultural Heritage Centers;  

12. Organize seminars, workshops and panel discussions with the assistance of WIPO to sensitize Rastafari and other indigenous and traditional groups to their rights and various organizational strategies, particularly in relation to their intellectual property;

13. Collaborate with other individuals and organizations which promote and defend the intellectual property of indigenous and traditional peoples worldwide;

14. Identify and access community and cultural funding for the Rastafari Millennium Agenda.  

Relationship of the Organization with Intellectual Property Matters: 

Over the past three and a half decades, successive governments of Jamaica, anthropologists, music producers, film-makers, artists, tourism operators, businessmen, academic researchers and many other individuals and organizations internationally, have dealt informally with various individuals and groups amongst the Rastafari peoples, for cultural and financial gain, with none such accruing to Rastafari as a collective.  Rastafari symbols, artifacts, music, art and religious marks have been misappropriated by many, with no acknowledgement or benefit for Rastafari.  This has resulted in economic and cultural loss to Rastafari, as well as to much confusion and dilution concerning Rastafari authenticity and integrity.  This has influenced the decision by the Rastafari leadership in Jamaica to take active steps to manage and control all aspects of their legacy and heritage, through the vehicle of the Ethio-Africa Diaspora Union Millennium Council.  The Council has therefore been involved in :

(1)          Organizing in July 2007 the first ever seminar and workshop on indigenous/traditional intellectual property in Jamaica, with the assistance of WIPO, to sensitize Rastafari, the Maroons and other indigenous and traditional groups to their intellectual property rights;

(2)          Lobbying for legal reform in Jamaica to recognize the right of Rastafari and the Maroons to control and authenticate the use by others of their intellectual property in music, dance, art, artifacts, symbols etc.;

(3)          Agitating for the preservation and protection of Rastafari cultural heritage sites;

(4)          Initiating negotiations with Smithsonian Institute representatives towards Rastafari intellectual property benefit-sharing and the establishment of a Rastafari Heritage and Cultural Centre;

(5)          Initiating negotiations with the Public Broadcasting Corporation of Jamaica towards Rastafari intellectual property benefit-sharing.

Country in which the Organization is primarily active: Jamaica.

Full Contact Information:

Ethio-Africa Diaspora Union Millennium Council

121 Windward Road

Kingston 2

Jamaica

Fax:  (+876) 967-9490

Email:  EthioAfricaMillennium2000@gmail.com

Organization Representative:             Mr. Marcus Goffe, Legal Advisor.

The Foundation of Support of Iranian Elites (F.S.I.E)   

Main objectives of the Organization:

 ·      To Support and help Inventors, Innovators and Researchers in their Inventions and Ideas and update them on what is happening worldwide

·      To Present specific Congresses, Meeting, Exhibitions inside and outside of the I.R.Iran about Innovation and Science Worldwide

·      To Connect with the International Inventors and Innovators Communities and Center to help Technology grow in the I.R.Iran

·      To Create the Scientific/Specific Committees to lift up the quality of Inventions in the I.R.Iran

·      To Introduce Inventions in I.R.Iran on our site for International Marketing.

·      To Have other Branches of our Foundation outside.

·      To Send Iranian Inventors to specific international Inventors competitions, Congresses and Exhibitions

·      To Collect Delegations and Representations of International Inventors, Creditable Societies, Officials and Non Officials.  Main activities of the Organization 

·      To give Membership to Inventors and Innovators and Researchers

·      To give professional /Scientific advise to our Members

·      To find sponsors for support of inventions and to get loans from banks and some Institutes of support

·      Editing the log term policies to help our Foundation and its members to grow more and more

·      To produce Inventions Calendar and Catalogues

·      To Present Congresses/Meetings and Exhibitions to enable talents and Inventors to meet and make business.  

Relationship of the Organization with Intellectual Property Matters: 

 ·      Our Foundation will put its efforts to introduce WIPO and its rules to community of inventors and Innovators in Iran with the help of its close and daily connection with the Government and the Parliament.

·      We will also announce our suggestions to WIPO to develop relations and qualities.

·      We are proud to present our board of management as a qualified Professional Team, as they have very good International background worldwide, Mr. Hamid Rezaeian, our president obtained a gold medal at WIPO (best invention) 2007 and many colorful medals in the international Exhibitions as a successful inventor himself.

·        We believe there is a lot of potential in Iran.  We know them and can motivate them.  We have done it since 5 years, we started our experiences in the world of inventions, for example:  we supported Iranian Innovators and Researchers under the name of Intellectual Property in several exhibitions (UK Exhibition: 20 Inventors, Belgium Exhibition: 20 Inventors, Switzerland Exhibition: 45 Inventors, Korea Exhibition: 15 inventors, Malaysia Exhibition: 65 Inventors, Germany Exhibition: 40 Inventors, Romania Exhibition: 25 Inventors, Hungarian Exhibition: 30 Inventors, etc).

·        We know we will be able to be a very active member of WIPO in Iran.

  Additional Information: ·        This foundation of 6,800 membership was established at the Ministry of Interior by signature of the Minister of Interior in Iran in 2003 to support Iranian elites, inventors and innovators.·        As there are very good relations and support from the Deputy of the Judiciary of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Deputy of Industrial Registration, Research Center of Astane Qods Razavi Association and other connected organs, we expect more governmental support in our upcoming future.·        We believe your organization can help us be updated on what is happening worldwide, help us to grow and the most important to guide us in the right international direction in the world of Intellectual property.·        We are very interested in receiving your advice and guidance.  Having a fruitful relationship with your Organization is one of our standards and aims.  Country in which the Organization is primarily active:             Head Office in the Islamic Republic of Iran – Tehran and (12 different Cities in Iran) Intl Office in Switzerland – Geneva.  

Full Contact Information:

The Foundation of Support of Iranian Elites (F.S.I.E)

No. 26 FarzaneganAmol StreetShariati StreetTehran16118 Iran C/O N. Rossler9, rue de Dionne1260 NyonSuisse Tel:  (+98) 21 77 50 19 15/912 58 000 60CH:  079/226 83 35Fax:  (+98) 21 7 53 84 48Email:  hamid@inventors.ch/hamid@iran-inventor.ir

Website :  www.inventors.ch/www.iran-inventor.ir

  Organization Representative:             Mr. Hamid Rezaeian, President/Member of Board of Trustees. 

Grupo de Investigación en Política y Legislación sobre Biodiversidad,
Recursos Genéticos y Conocimientos Tradicionales/
Policy and Legislation on Biodiversity, Genetic Resourcesand Traditional Knowledge (PLEBIO)  

Main objectives of the Organization:

 PLEBIO has the purpose to consolidate a multidisciplinary team of researchers with specialized training and experience on legislation on intellectual property and access to genetic resources, protection of traditional knowledge, molecular biology, biotechnology, negotiation and transfer of technology, and international relations. At the national level our efforts are centered on developing a program to promote dialogue and understanding between the scientific community and the indigenous and local communities regarding bioprospecting issues. Our group aims to strengthen institutional and academic linkages with groups and institutions with similar interest, within the Latin American region and further.  

Main objectives of the Organization:

             The PLEBIO of the National University of Colombia carries out research on access to biological and genetic resources and derivative products;  valuation of genetic resources and intellectual property rights;  public policy, economics and biodiversity;  bioprospection and protection of traditional knowledge.  It also promotes dialogue between the scientific community and local communities concerning bioprospection projects and has established academic and institutional contacts with organizations of similar interests.  The group has also conducted collaborative research with international institutions.  Presently, PLEBIO participates in GeBix, an alliance of 15 national research groups, to establish a platform for developing meta-genomics and bioinformatics in Colombia to explore her biodiversity.  PLEBIO is involved in national and international meetings, seminars and workshops on the discussion and analysis of problems related to bioprospection, access regimes, intellectual property rights and protection of traditional knowledge.  Relationship of the Organization with Intellectual Property matters: PLEBIO has published reports on access to genetic resources within the Andean Regime, documented the practical application of the access regime in the Colombian context, and analyzed the problems created by fictional legal divisions between biological and genetic resources.  Currently, PLEBIO provides legal advice to research institutions regarding the protection of technology and research products.  It also has formulated legal initiatives and recommendations for the protection of rights over genetic resources and traditional knowledge.

The research areas of PLEBIO are closely related to the central issues discussed at the Intergovernmental Committee on WIPO Intellectual Property and Genetic Resources, Traditional Knowledge and Folklore.  The work undertaken by the Intergovernmental Committee is seminal in the area.  We believe that it is highly relevant for PLEBIO to become observers in the forum that has formulated documents such as the “Revised Objectives and Principles for the Protection of Traditional Knowledge” (“Objectives and Principles”) and the draft set of “Revised Objectives and Principles for the Protection of Traditional Cultural Expressions/Expressions of Folklore” (“Objectives and Principles”).   The work carried out by the Intergovernmental Committee provides a framework for building international consensus on the issues with wide participation of diverse stakeholders:  states, organizations and representatives of indigenous and local communities.  This forum has presented valuable remarks, concerns and experiences that promote the debate, alert on potential risks and probable solutions. PLEBIO will, undoubtedly, benefit as an observer at the Intergovernmental Committee.  It will allow us to develop our proposals, studies, and suggestions at the national and regional level, taking into account international discussions.  It is our interest that our work articulates with international processes and the development of legal mechanisms.  

Countries in which the Organization is primarily active:  International with emphasis on Latin America, Colombia.

  Full Contact Information:

 Grupo de Investigación en Política y Legislación sobre Biodiversidad,
Recursos Genéticos y Conocimientos TradicionalesCarrera 30 No. 45-03 Edif. 201Universidad Nacional de ColombiaBogotáColombia Tel:  (+571) 3165000 ext. 17335Fax:  (+571) 3165000Email:  plebio_fdbog@unal.edu.co/grnemogas@gmail.com/oalizarazoc@bt.unal.edu.coWebsite:  www.plebio.unal.edu.co  Organization Representatives:             Mr. Gabriel Ricardo Nemogá Soto Ph.D, Director. 

            Mr. Oscar Andrés Lizarazo, Researcher.

Kadazandusun Cultural Association Sabah   

Main objectives of the Organization:

The Kadazandusun Cultural Association Sabah (KDCA), is a non-political Association of 40 indigenous ethnic communities of Sabah, first registered under the Malaysian Societies Act 1966, on April 29, 1966 by the then Deputy Registrar of Societies Malaysia, Mr. J. P. Rutherford.

KDCA’s humble beginning started with the birth of the Society of Kadazan Penampang in 1953.  This society paved the way for the formation of the Kadazan Cultural Association Sabah (KCA) in 1963, which in turn transformed into the present KDCA on September 25, 1991.

KDCA adopts a two-pronged strategy comprising the socio-cultural development thrust (which covers 5 main Development Bureaus), and the entrepreneurship and commercial development emphasis.

Special Committees, Councils, Units and Sub-Committees have been created for the supportive implementation of programs and activities of the KDCA, which indirectly serves to increase opportunities for the participation and involvement of KDCA members in the over all movement and development of the association.

 This whole central strategy is then passed on to the KDCA districts and branches for adoption and re-orientation according to local needs and conditions.  Relationship of the Organization with Intellectual Property:Ever since its inception in the early 50’s, the KDCA has focused much of its efforts in the preservation, development, enrichment and promotion of the Kadazandusun multi-ethnic cultures.  Without KDCA, much more of the currently existing Kadazandusun cultural heritage would have sunk to oblivion by now, buried lost forever or displaced by the ever dominating modern cultures.  The KDCA’s Triennial Delegates Conference provides for the much needed forum where the various Kadazandusun multi-ethnic representatives discuss major issues affecting them and their future and take up both individual and collective stand and actions to resolve common challenges.

The KDCA is presently involved in various activities related to Research & Documentation, preservation, development and promotions of the Kadazandusun culture:  language and literary works; Bobolians & Rinaits;  traditional medicine, traditional food and beverages;  music, songs, dances and dramas;  traditional arts, crafts and designs;  traditional sports; traditional wears and costumes.  Lately, along with the growing international cooperation of the world’s indigenous peoples, indigenous knowledge, intellectual property and traditional resource rights conservation, enhancement and protection have also become new areas of the KDCA’s concern and responsibility.  The KDCA continues to play its vital role in fostering unity, friendship and cooperation among the multi-racial population of Sabah through its participatory cultural programs and celebrations such as the Village, District and State levels Annual “Kaamatan Festival”.  Over the years, it has sent Cultural Performance Troupes on goodwill tours to other Malaysian States, to neighboring Asian Countries, to Europe, America, Canada and New Zealand. 

 Country in which the Organization is primarily active: Malaysia (Sabah).

Full Contact Information:

Kadazandusun Cultural Association

Hongkod Koisaan

Km 7, Penampang Road

WDT 39

89509 Penampang

Sabah

Malaysia

Tel:  (+60) 88713696

Fax:  (+60) 88713350

Email:  koisaan@yahoo.com/kdcahq@yahoo.com

  Organization Representative:  Dr. Benedict Topin, Executive Secretary.

Sarawak Kayan Association/Persatuan Kayan Sarawak   

Main objectives of the Organization:

Kayan is a small tribe found both in Sarawak, Malaysia and Kalimantan, Indonesia.  The population in Sarawak is 26,000 in 2000 (Statistics Dept).  The total population in Indonesia is unknown but is probably less.  The tribe is well known for its rich cultural heritage that includes epic stories, handicrafts, musical instrument and others.  It is also well known for its Social Structure. The objectives of Sarawak Kayan Association are: To promote friendship, understanding, self help and co-operation among members;To promote social well-being of members;  To promote, advance, study and preserve Kayan cultures.  This shall include traditional Kayan sports, arts, artefacts, songs, dances and music of the Kayan community; To promote the use of the Kayan language; To promote the educational attainments among its members and their families; To promote and encourage economic activities among its members. 

 Relationship of the Organization with Intellectual Property: 

Persatuan Kayan Sarawak is happy to share the traditional knowledge of the community with other communities but would like to have some monetary benefits if any of these IP are commercialized.

  Country in which the Organization is primarily active: Malaysia.

Full Contact Information:

Persatuan Kayan Sarawak

23 Taman Linang-Subuh

Lorong 3B

Jalan Wan Alwi

93350 Kuching, Sarawak

Malaysia

Tel:  (+60) 19 8180926

Fax:  (+60) 82 239766

Email:  tamanbalan@yahoo.com

  Organization Representative:  Mr. Lah Jau Uyo, President.

Vibe Australia Pty Ltd (Vibe)   

Main activities of the Organization:

Vibe Australia Pty Ltd (Vibe) is an Aboriginal media organization with a suite of fully integrated communication products much utilized and enjoyed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Australia.

Vibe produces:

-         Deadly Vibe, a national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, sport, music and lifestyle magazine, with a monthly distribution of

47, 000;

-         In Vibe, a dynamic, accessible and culturally sensitive 24 page full-color magazine for Indigenous people in secure rehabilitation care and at risk;

-         Deadly Sounds, a weekly radio program syndicated to over 200 Aboriginal community stations around Australia featuring music, culture and health information in an upbeat magazine format;

-         The Vibe 3on3(r), a national music and sporting event to promote health, well being, identity and sportsmanship;

-         The Deadlys, the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Music, Sport, Entertainment and Community awards, held at the Sydney Opera House and broadcast on SBS;  and

-         http://www.vibe.com.au, an extensive website that consolidates all of Vibe’s activities and which attracts just over 5,000 visits per day.

All our products and events support the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle without the use of drugs or excessive consumption of alcohol.  We promote a smoke free lifestyle.  We encourage the completion of a full secondary education, and are committed to increasing training and employment opportunities within Indigenous communities.

Main objectives of the Organization:

Our vision is to support all Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islander People in reaching their full potential by providing positive imagery, identifiable role models and quality information to improve community and quality of life.

Relationship of the Organization with Intellectual Property:

Vibe Australia deals with Intellectual Property matters on a daily basis, due to our extensive suite of media products.  We are constantly grappling with issues around cultural heritage, and would be very interested in participating in this process.

  Country in which the Organization is primarily active: Australia.

  Full Contact Information:

Vibe Australia Pty Ltd (Vibe)

26 Burton StreetDarlinghurst NSW 2010Australia Tel:  (+61) 2 9361 0140Fax:  (+61) 2 9361 5850Email:  georgia@vibe.com.au  Organization Representative:             Mrs. Georgia Cordukes, General Manager.  

[End of Annex and of document]

Source: www.wipo.int (2008)

NST, 14/5/2008 By : Evangeline Majawat

KUALA LUMPUR: The melodious sopogandangan (gongs) beating the ancient rhythms of the sumazau will reverberate throughout Sabah this month, signifying Tadau Kamaatan, or the Harvest Festival, is here.

The Bobohizans, or high priests or priestesses, performing intricate and ancient rituals to restore and appease the Bambaazon.

For the Kadazandusuns, who make up more than 30 per cent of the population in the state, May is a time for merry-making and thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest.

But more importantly, it is the time to return to one’s roots and celebrate Kadazandusun culture by continuing a tradition practiced since time immemorial.

“Early records of the British in North Borneo in the late 18th century show the Kadazandusuns were celebrating Tadau Kamaatan, even then,” said Kadazandusun Cultural Association (KDCA) deputy president and Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Maximus Ongkili.

“The whole festival is essentially about being thankful for a good padi harvest. Remember, the Kadazandusuns’ staple food has always been and still is rice.”

In the 1960s, it was institutionalised as a state celebration when the first Chief Minister Tun Mohd Fuad Stephens gazetted May 31 as a public holiday.

Originally, Kamaatan honoured the rice spirit Bambaazon (See ‘The Six Stages of Bambaazon’ below). Legend has it there was once a severe draught and a great famine.

Kinoingan, the almighty God and creator, took pity and sacrificed his only daughter Huminodun to save his people.

Her body was sown as seeds throughout the land, and from these sprang the Kadazandusuns’ staple food: rice.

Red rice is considered the most sacred as it grew from Huminodun’s blood and flesh.

Huminodun is embodied in the seven-in-one rice spirit Bambaazon, and during Kaamatan, the Bobohizans, or high priests and priestesses, perform intricate and ancient rituals to salvage, rescue, unite, restore and appease Bambaazon, who could have been injured or lost during the harvest.

Six rituals are performed, but the most important is the Magavau when the Bobohizans search for and rescue Bambaazon.

Special prayers beckon the spirit back home to rest until the next planting season.

Some of the offerings given include fermented rice (tondut), seven bamboo cups of the best tapai (rice wine), eggs, banana blossom, fermented fish (nonsom) and chickens.

“With the advent of religion the ceremonies became more symbolic.

“Originally, Kaamatan was to honour the Bambaazon and give thanks to Kinoingan.

“Now, it’s about being grateful and celebrating a good harvest after all the hard work.

“It’s also a time for reunion with family and friends.”

At the end of the month, the state-level celebration will be held at the KDCA Hongkod Koisaan (Unity Hall) in Kota Kinabalu.

The most anticipated event is the Unduk Ngadau, a traditional beauty pageant.

The pageant pays homage to Huminodun, whose selfless act of sacrifice saved her people from starvation.

The winner of the Unduk Ngadau is said to embody the qualities of Huminodun, who was perfect and whole in soul, mind and beauty.

“Unduk Ngadau is not merely a pageant — it is a showcase of the Kadazandusun culture,” said Ongkili.

The contest, open to unmarried girls of Kadazandusun lineage between 18 and 25 years old, is not your typical beauty pageant. Skimpy bathing suits and catwalk struts are noticeably missing.

The girls (sumandak) are dressed in their traditional finery. Bonus points are given to those who can speak Kadazandusun. The judges pay particular attention to the traditional attire, which must be complete with all the trimmings and jewellery. The participant’s hair is even fashioned in the traditional style.

“In the past only school-leavers took part. Now, we have doctors, teachers and postgraduate students.

“About 60 per cent of the participants have tertiary qualifications.

“To me, this is an indirect reflection of the progress of the Kadazandusuns.”

In a bid to ensure the younger generations stay rooted in their culture, the KDCA is intensifying preservation and promotion efforts. This year’s Kaamatan will include an exhibition of traditional tools for padi cultivation.

Another addition to the celebration is a half-day showcase of local delicacies, such as bambangan (pickled wild mango), pinasakan (fish stew) and hinava (raw fish).

THE SIX STAGES OF BAMBAAZON

1. The Kumogos Ceremony

Before a harvest begins, the Bobohizan selects, ties and puts aside seven stalks of the best padi from a padi field. These will only be harvested after that field has been completely harvested. The seven stalks of padi are then scattered all over the field as a gift to the other spirits who may be there not to disturb the people during the harvest season.

2. The Kumotob Ceremony

The Bobohizan selects seven s talks of the best rice from padi fields which have yet to be harvested. The stalks are tied together and placed in a tadang (a special basket for keeping rice). Once this is done, the harvest can be completed.

3. The Posisip Ceremony

The Bobohizan takes the seven stalks of padi in the tadang to a rice hut. While chanting, she takes out the bundles and inserts them into a bamboo pole in the tangkob (rice container). The chants invoke the spirit of the rice to stay in the rice hut until the next planting season.

4. The Poiib Ceremony

In the rice hut, the Bobohizan carefully pours the rice into the tangkob. This process is repeated until there is no rice left in the tadang. The Bobohizan then recites chants appealing to the rice spirits to keep watch over the rice stored in the tangkob.

5. The Magavau Ceremony

This is the most important ceremony in Tadau Kaamatan. This focuses on the restoration of Bambaazon. Chants are recited and offerings made to the rice spirit. The Magavau is performed on the night of the first full moon after the harvest.

6. The Humabot Ceremony

The final stage involves a lot of merry-making and entertainment. This ceremony is celebrated at villages and districts, with state-level celebrations culminating on May 30 and 31. Traditional sports, gong-beating competitions and buffalo races are held. The highlight of the celebration is choosing the Unduk Ngadau.