Kuala Penyu wins diocesan gong beating competition

KENINGAU – Saint Peter Bundu Kuala Penyu won the diocesan gong beating competition held on 21 Apr 2018 at the Diocesan Square here with Katedral St Francis Xavier as the first runner-up and St Anthony Tenom in the third place.

The competition was one of the activities carried out to mark the Diocesan Silver Jubilee which will culminate on May 5.

Among the criteria were presentation and creativity, tempo and attire according to professional standards by the Kadazandusun Cultural Association Sabah (KDCA).

Gong beating is part of the traditional cultural values handed down from generation to generation among the Dusun and Murut tribes.  It is used for social events, entertainment and as a communication tool.  It also serves to unite the society.

In addition, it is also used in church functions and in the liturgy of the Mass.

In his speech, Father Rudolf Joannes said that such tradition should not be separated from religious usage as many church activities require the use of the gong.  He hoped that the gong beating will help to uplift the spirit and unity of the people as they celebrate the diocesan silver jubilee.

He then beat the gong seven times to mark the opening of the competition.

Six groups took part in the competition: St Patrick Membakut, St Theresa Tambunan, Kemabong Mission, St Anthony Tenom, St Peter Bundu Kuala Penyu, and Katedral St Francis Xavier Keningau.