Ewon’s efforts in developing Tamu and Kadamaian Square lauded

21 November 2024

By AVV

KOTA BELUD: Kadamaian Square, in Taginambur stands as a testament of a leader’s perseverance in carrying out one of the visions of a former leader.

At least that’s how Datuk Yapin Gimpoton, the former State Assemblyman of Kadamaian, then known as Kebayau thinks.

“The Tamu, or traditional market, was originally located at Mile 10 near the clinic. However, as its popularity grew, the area quickly became overcrowded, prompting the decision to relocate the Tamu to its current site. Initially, this location was designated for low-cost housing. However, I noticed that the community showed little interest in affordable homes, leading me to propose its transformation into a Tamu during my tenure as a State Assemblyman,” he said.

According to him, over the years, this area has expanded significantly, attracting a multitude of vendors. When they first moved here, the buildings were quite different, and there was little to offer in terms of amenities.

“It was not until Datuk Ewon Benedick became the State Assemblyman that we began to see real progress. He reached out to me to discuss our previous discussion to establish Taginamur as a township, recognising the need for this development as Kota Belud became increasingly congested.”

“Today, this vibrant Kadamaian Square and Tamu area draws many visitors. This is convenient for residents to shop for vegetables and other goods without the hassle of traveling into the town. The community enjoys the accessibility and atmosphere that the Tamu provides."

"Under Datuk Ewon's leadership, the area has seen substantial improvements, including plans to enhance both the market and the nearby river, which can become a popular spot for swimming and recreational activities.”

“I am particularly grateful to Datuk Ewon for revitalising this area. Once known as Kebayau, it was through the collaborative efforts of several community leaders, including myself, that we chose to rename it Kadamaian. This new name pays homage to the river, whose waters flow from Mount Kinabalu, and which the villagers affectionately refer to as Sungai Kadamaian.”

"In addition to these developments, I would like to express my appreciation for the construction of Kadamaian Square, a multifunctional hall that serves as a marketplace for local villagers. Datuk Ewon's commitment to development in this area is evident through numerous initiatives that he has championed.”

“Looking ahead, we hope that Datuk Ewon will continue to focus on upgrading Kadamaian, particularly as the town of Kota Belud becomes more crowded. There are numerous villages in this region, and I envision establishing Kadamaian as a sub-district managed by an Assistant District Officer to better serve the community's needs.”

Johnny Gilong shared, “I am the former chairman of the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) for Kampung Tambulaung Taginambur, the site of the Kadamaian Square and Taginambur market.

To provide some context, this market was not originally located here. In 1983, it was relocated to its current site, thanks to the efforts of Datuk Yapin, who advocated for this move.

The original Taginambur market area was earmarked for town development, so the Tamu was moved here and officially inaugurated in 1983 by then-Chief Minister Tan Sri Harris Salleh.

“Since then, Datuk Ewon has played a significant role in further developing this area. He has paved the entire site, enhancing the Kadamaian area and ensuring it meets the needs of both vendors and visitors.

Notably, the riverbanks of the area and Kadamaian River near it, are now equipped with solar lighting, which illuminates the area at night, making it not only safe but also an excellent spot for jogging.”

“The market itself spans over an acre and serves operators from both the Kadamaian area and beyond. It all began under the shade of large rain trees, where the first market activities took place, after shifting from Mile 10.

"The continued development of this space is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Datuk Ewon, and more recently, the area has even welcomed visits from Datuk Zahid Hamidi, highlighting its growing significance,” he enthused.

Meanwhile, Datin Terisah Bahan, the spouse of Yapin, expressed her heartfelt satisfaction with the ongoing development in the area and conveyed her deep appreciation for Datuk Ewon's efforts.

"Having this Tamu and witnessing its success and growth brings my husband immense joy," she remarked, adding that she feels a great sense of pride in Datuk Ewon for carrying on the legacy of previous leaders and ensuring the continuation of sustainable initiatives.

Nonie Bongkuoi, a member of the Federation of SIB Women in Taginambur, who sells her products at the Tamu, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to showcase her wares. She thanked Datuk Ewon for his unwavering support in ensuring that vendors like herself have a designated space to earn a livelihood. She also expressed her hope that this assistance and support will continue in the future.

Doulin Pongundar, a tamu vendor expressed her utmost appreciation to Datuk Ewon for his contribution to the community.

“He has been doing so much for the people here, before he even became involved in politics, before he became a Minister,” she said, adding that his contribution to the people cannot be denied.

Other vendors who declined to be named agreed with her and expressed their appreciation to the State Assemblyman for Kadamaian, who is also the Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (MEDC).