PENAMPANG: Justina Laison Masabal, one of the oldest constestants, emerged as the champion of the Hozou Songkotoun Kadazan-Dusun Singing Competition 2026 with her captivating renditions of “Solizong Vatu Sinodu Nu” and “Nokoikot No Monombuhui”.
The grand final was held at Grand Ballroom 1, ITCC Penampang, on Saturday, 7 November 2026, and was organised by the KDCA Penampang & Putatan Coordinating Body.
The final competition was officiated by KDCA Deputy President, Bulawan Sigah Datuk Seri Panglima Clarence B. Malakun, J.P., who highlighted the importance of preserving and promoting the Kadazan-Dusun language among younger generations.
He noted that the KDCA Penampang & Putatan Coordinating Body has been organising free Kadazan-Dusun language conversation classes every alternate Saturday at ITCC Shopping Mall to encourage the younger generation to learn, practise and preserve their mother tongue.
He further emphasised that organising Kadazan-Dusun singing competitions is another meaningful way of safe guarding the community’s language, culture and heritage.
Also present Datin Seri Panglima Sylvia Malakun and the organizing chairman, Dennis Julian Tunding.
Malakun, also Chairman of KDCA Penampag & Putatan pointed out that this initiative has been carried out for more than 20 years and expressed his hopet hat the competition would continue for many more years to come.
This year’s Hozou Songkotoun Kadazan-Dusun Singing Competition featured ten finalists, who showcased their vocal talents through renditions of popular Kadazan-Dusun songs from the 1960s.
Peter Jipiu secured second place with his performances of “Nokoipi Zou Diau”and
“Oi Sadi”, while Muldin Marius Gitam took third place with his renditions of “Bimbizangan” and “Vinoun”.
