KOTA KINABALU: The term 'momogun' is appropriate to identify indigenous peoples in Sabah, said Tuaran Member of Parliament Datu Seri Wilfred Madius Tangau.
Madius believes that 'momogun' as a common classification could encompass all the indigenous ethnic groups here.
Madius said the debate on the appropriate terminology should not be prolonged.
"For me, personally there's no need to debate on this issue. Make it simple, just use 'momogun'.
"The press (for example) please use 'momogun' and not KDMR (Kadazan Dusun Murut Rungus). When you use KDMR there's no end to it because there's always be an ethnic group left out. Let's say, if we only use KDMR how about Tobilung, Lundayeh, and other ethnic groups?
"But when you use 'momogun', nobody is left out," he said when met during the Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB) Raya Kaamatan at Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) last night.
The former president of the United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (Upko) was asked for his view on the use of the term 'Momogun' or 'Dayak' to replace the "lain-lain" (others) section in official government forms as identification for Sabahan natives.
Upko president Datuk Ewon Benedick made the 'momogun' proposal during the recently concluded Sabah state assembly sitting.
However, Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Dr Jeffrey Kitingan later responded that the term "Dayak" is a more fitting representation.
This has sparked debates among professional groups and the public regarding the proper terminology to identify the indigenous peoples of the region.
While some support the use of "Dayak," others advocate for "Momogun," underscoring the complexities involved in establishing a unified identity.