KOTA KINABALU — Although the ancient Kadazan Dusun practice of using tanjau urns for ceremonial burials is no longer observed, it continues to be shared with visitors at Mari Mari Cultural Village, a centre committed to safeguarding Sabah’s ethnic heritage.
At MMCV, guests explore traditional houses, indigenous cuisines and cultural showcases representing the Dusun, Rungus, Lundayeh, Bajau and Murut communities.
Tour guide Mohd Aidil Pulian Abdullah said MMCV has acted as a cultural hub since 2009, reviving traditions that have nearly vanished — such as bamboo firestarting and the trampoline-like lansaran used to celebrate warriors.
The centre employs 26 full-time guides and receives international translators from Korea, China, Russia and Japan.
Cultural shows twice daily highlight dances including Limbai and the renowned Magunatip bamboo dance. Aidil believes MMCV is vital for preserving identity amid modernisation.