By Mohd Khairy Abdullah @ DG Henry
TENOM (Sabah, Malaysia), 22 Sept 2025 — The Indigenous Peoples Day celebration at the Sabah Murut Cultural Centre in Tenom marked a historic milestone as Junik Bajit, President of the Murut Timugon Ethnic Association, was conferred the title of Indigenous Ethnic Icon of Sabah (OAS) 2025 — the highest recognition bestowed upon community leaders for their outstanding contributions to the advancement of Indigenous communities.
As President of the Murut Timugon Ethnic Association, Junik has been widely recognized for his unwavering commitment to preserving cultural identity, strengthening education for younger generations, and safeguarding the Murut Timugon language and traditions. Beyond culture and education, he also plays a pivotal role as Patron of the Timugon Tenom Cooperative, which drives rural entrepreneurship and economic empowerment within the community.
In addition, Junik serves as Division Chief of UPKO for N.42 Melalap. Yet, the OAS 2025 honor underscores a broader truth: his legacy transcends party politics, grounded instead in humanitarian values, inclusivity, and the enduring cause of Indigenous rights.
This recognition not only elevates his standing at the state level but also demonstrates how grassroots leadership can become a transformative force, inspiring Sabah’s younger generation. It symbolizes a wider aspiration — that the survival of Indigenous heritage must move in tandem with progressive socio-economic development, enabling the community to compete and thrive on the global stage.
