The Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association Sabah (KDCA), is non-political Association of 45 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.

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.

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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.

Nevertheless, like all other organizations KDCA can only move and grow in as much and as far as its resources, leaders and members can power it. There is a constant need for more young, professional, energetic and resourceful KDCA members to contribute towards KDCA’s continuous growth and development. It is therefore imperative that people must know and understand KDCA’s vision, goals, roles, functions and programs of activities and most of all membership privileges first before involving themselves in KDCA. This brochure hopes to enlighten KDCA members, prospective members, the public and global friends what the KDCA generally is, yesterday, today and ever onwards, tomorrow.

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