KOTA KINABALU: Bajau Sama's traditional oral art has earned national recognition, with its leading practitioner, Masruh Siadik, named a National Living Heritage Figure (WAKOH) 2026.
Masruh was recognised in the Language and Literature Arts category for his contributions to preserving, developing and promoting Isun-Isun, a traditional art form practised by the Bajau Sama and Iranun communities in Kota Belud.
"Isun-Isun combines oral poetry and music through exchanges of pantun between male and female singers, accompanied by a traditional violin.
"The art form is traditionally performed at weddings, childbirth celebrations, vow-fulfilment ceremonies and cultural events, including the Kota Belud Tamu Besar and Regatta Lepa," according to a statement by the Sabah National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN).
