Foundation and Archdiocese partner for indigenous language, sustainabi

Kadazandusun Language Foundation (KLF) has partnered with the Archdiocese of Kota Kinabalu to advance its mission of sustainability through Indigenous language conservation.

Sep 06, 2024

Archbishop John Wong and Datuk Philip Lasimbang, KLF’s chairman of the board of trustee holding the book together with members of group.


Kadazandusun Language Foundation (KLF) has partnered with the Archdiocese of Kota Kinabalu to advance its mission of sustainability through Indigenous language conservation. This strategic collaboration aligns with the Foundation’s efforts to promote the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through its programmess in Sabah and Malaysia.

KLF’s Board of Trustees Chairman, Datuk Philip Lasimbang, highlighted the importance of such partnerships in diversifying their initiatives. The Foundation recently sponsored the publication of Reading Project with 5sMMS on 17SDGs, a book developed in collaboration with author Bernadette Peter Lidadun, her doctoral supervisor Dr Nancy Chiuh and Archbishop John Wong of Kota Kinabalu.

The book, which was discussed in January, details the UN’s 17 SDGs and aims to integrate these goals into KLF’s sustainable methods.

During a courtesy call to Archbishop John, Philip emphasised the value of the book as a tool for implementing sustainable practices. “We are pleased to provide 100 complimentary copies of this book to the Archdiocese of Kota Kinabalu. These will serve as training material for the aspirants at the Aspirant Preparatory Seminary and the seminarians at the Initiation Year Seminary, St Peter’s College,” he stated.

“We hope that distributing this book will enhance public knowledge and awareness of the 17 SDGs. We also want to express our deepest gratitude to the Archdiocese of Kota Kinabalu for placing their trust in KLF for this publication, which is the culmination of the author’s three years of research at the Aspirant Preparatory Seminary,” said Philip.

Archbishop John welcomed the contribution and involvement of those working to build a more informed and engaged society.

“I found the content of this book to be both comprehensive and practical. It is presented systematically with engaging illustrations. I believe it will serve as a valuable resource that encourages interest in sustainable development, harmonising it with faith and spirituality. The lessons from Catholic Social Teaching can guide Catholics, in particular, in adapting and implementing action plans to meet the targets of the 17 SDGs in their communities,” he said.

Fr Isidore Gilbert, Director of the Aspirant Preparatory Seminary, praised the book’s relevance and applicability, describing it as an accessible resource that simplifies complex topics through a structured reading approach.

Rita Lasimbang, CEO of KLF, reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to Indigenous language conservation and its dedication to partnering with various stakeholders. “Since its establishment in 1994, KLF has been devoted to preserving Indigenous languages in Sabah. This book’s publication is a special effort that reflects our ongoing mission,” she said.

Author Bernadette Peter Lidadun, who has been a Visiting Lecturer at the Aspirant Preparatory Seminary since 2014, explained that the book was developed as part of the Malaysian National Reading Decade (2020- 2030) initiative. It is designed to enhance literacy, critical thinking, and cultural awareness while addressing barriers to reading.

The book employs Monroe’s Motivated Sequence (5sMMS) to engage readers and inspire action towards positive change. It features 100 topics related to the SDGs and includes a guide for learners to access accurate information from official UN and relevant organisational websites.

The project has received accolades, including the Diamond Award at the 2nd International Conference on Biodiversity and Sustainable Development 2023 and the Gold Award at the Virtual International Innovation Competition (VIIC) 2023.

Bernadette emphasised that the book is a significant resource for language educators and special interest groups, equipping them with a comprehensive understanding of Education for Sustainable Development, particularly Target 4.7 of SDG4 – Quality Education. --Daily Express

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