Donggongon: The Heartbeat of Penampang’s Culture, Food and Tamu Tradition by Lorena Binisol

Every Wednesday and Thursday, something special happens in Donggongon, the vibrant township at the heart of Penampang. The streets come alive as villagers, vendors and townsfolk gather for the beloved Tamu, a weekly market that has long been part of the community’s rhythm.

For generations, the Tamu has been more than just a marketplace. It is a meeting ground where stories are exchanged, traditions are preserved, and the spirit of the community continues to thrive.

At the moment, vendors are temporarily operating in the open space between shop lots while the new permanent Tamu building is under construction. The upcoming structure promises a more modern look, but many locals still remember the rustic charm of the old Tamu, where simple stalls created a warm and authentic village atmosphere.

Despite the temporary setting, the market remains lively. Visitors can still find baskets filled with fresh vegetables, tropical fruits and produce brought in from nearby villages.

Among the unique items often sought after is “Sasad”, a homemade yeast used for fermenting traditional rice wine. Many families in Penampang continue to produce rice wine at home, whether for personal consumption or as a small source of income. The continued demand for Sasad reflects how deeply rooted this cultural tradition remains within the community.

Yet, there is growing curiosity about whether the younger generation will continue this heritage, as today it is mostly the older generation who keeps the craft alive.

Just across from the wet market stands one of Donggongon’s most nostalgic landmarks, an old building that has stood since the 1970s. For many locals, it is a quiet reminder of the town’s past.

Writer-on-the-go Lorena Binisol recalls seeing the building during her primary school days at SJKC Yue Min, when the wooden school once stood near the bus station beside the wet market.

“It feels so nostalgic to see this building,” she shared. “There used to be a few eateries here before the Nam Pang eatery appeared, and it is still standing even today.”

The Nam Pang eatery remains a favourite breakfast meeting spot for locals. Known for simple yet satisfying dishes like kinchi mein, stuffed tauhu and other comforting favourites, it’s where many people begin their day before heading to the bustling Tamu.

Food plays a big role in Donggongon’s identity. As Penampang is largely a pork-eating community, generous pork dishes are widely enjoyed. From pork noodle soup and konlou mee to beef soup and fish noodle soup, the township offers an impressive variety of local comfort food.

At the same time, modern dessert chains such as WeDrink and Yoyo Drink can now be found around town, reflecting the blend of tradition and modern lifestyle.

Beyond the market and eateries, Donggongon offers many other places worth visiting. The local library encourages learning among children, while Chinese temples add cultural beauty to the township. Together with the wet market, traditional shop houses and local businesses, these places paint a picture of a community that balances heritage and progress.

On Tamu days, visitors are often treated to live entertainment. Small groups of performers sing traditional Kadazan songs accompanied by the rhythmic beat of the Sumazau, creating a joyful and festive atmosphere.

Many elderly visitors appreciate these traditional songs deeply, though there is always hope that younger generations will continue to embrace and understand their cultural significance.

Another meaningful landmark is the monument of Datuk Peter Mojuntin, a respected Kadazan leader who tragically lost his life in a plane crash in 1976. His statue now stands proudly within the Tamu area and has become a popular photo spot for visitors.

More importantly, it serves as a reminder for younger generations to learn about the leader’s legacy and the role he played in Sabah’s history.

With its rich blend of heritage, culture, food and community spirit, Donggongon holds all the ingredients of a charming tourism destination. Organizations such as the Penampang Tourism Association are already working to promote the township, and with stronger marketing efforts, Donggongon could easily become a must-visit destination for travellers seeking authentic Sabahan experiences.

However, one longstanding issue continues to affect the community, the recurring flood problem that has troubled Penampang for decades. Solving this challenge would not only protect homes and businesses but also give the people of Donggongon the peace of mind to move forward confidently.

Until then, life continues to flow through the streets of Donggongon just as it always has through its markets, its food, its music and its people.

Content write-up & Photo Courtesy of Writer on-the-go  

(Editor-in-Chief Lorena Binisol)