A collaborative effort known as the "Rumapau" Art Project has injected vibrant energy into the walls of a building in Donggongon town, Sabah, showcasing a colossal mural portraying a native priestess or "bobohizan." Six local artists, namely Bam Hizal, Jibrail Jamil, Jose Ree, Crig Francis (Cracko), Andy Romeo, and Canie Tan, pooled their talents over a month to create this magnificent mural, not only adding a splash of color to the surroundings but also narrating a visual story of culture and community.
Bam, a member of the Pangrok Sulap collective, explained that they selected Bobohizan as a symbol of tradition and culture's empowerment. The art programme's objectives include embracing, promoting, and appreciating local culture and traditions, raising awareness about ecological threats to nature, and fostering a "sense of community" within society through art.
"During this project, we had plenty of time to socialise, build networks with the local community there, and they also hope that the arts can attract more outsiders to visit the Penampang region and get to know the traditions there," Bam said, revealing that approximately 50 litres of paint were used for the mural.
The collaborative project involved the Sabah Cultural Arts Collective Organisation, Penampang Hakka Association, and high school students, supported by the Kapayan Assemblyman's Office. Kapayan assemblyman Jannie Lasimbang expressed her office's inspiration for the beautification project in Donggongon, anticipating that it would attract more visitors and instill pride and unity in the community.
