TENOM: Hundreds of ethnic Murut natives paraded along the streets here where the Kalimaran Festival will be launched by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The parade by the group in their full traditional regalia, representing the various sub tribes from the interior districts here, Keningau, Sipitang, Sook, Nabawan and Pensiangan, are among the highlights of the annual festival - a celebration of the community's craftsmanship.
Thousands began gathering at the town padang here from the early hours where exhibition booths from various agencies have been set up to liven things up in this agricultural district.
Zahid who is scheduled here later will be accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan along with other state and federal dignitaries.
Also expected are senior Murut leaders such as Datuk Rubin Balang, Datuk Radin Malleh, Datuk Bobbey Suan and Datuk Ellron Alfred among others.