INI KALI LAH A Kaamatan Story: The Grand Finale of a Cultural Trilogy By Writer On-The-Go

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In the evolving landscape of Sabah-born storytelling, few digital platforms have captured the soul of local culture quite like NorthBorneoTV. This Kaamatan season, the creative powerhouse returns with Ini Kali Lah – A Kaamatan Story, the highly anticipated third and final chapter of its celebrated short film trilogy.

Following the viral momentum of Roti Kahwin and Tarik Tali, which collectively amassed more than 300,000 YouTube views, this latest release arrives with greater emotional depth, visual ambition, and unmistakable Sabahan flavour. Written and directed by Johan John, the film unfolds against the vibrant backdrop of Kaamatan, blending humour, friendship, culture, and the beautiful chaos of homegrown identity.




More than a festive feature, Ini Kali Lah becomes a cinematic road trip through the heart of Sabah. The story follows a rescue mission involving Dora, an influencer and former Unduk Ngadau contestant, before spiralling into a colourful adventure packed with laughter, local delicacies, unforgettable personalities, and meaningful cultural encounters.

Audiences will also experience Sabah through a luxurious visual lens: from its scenic landscapes to the warmth of its communities, all wrapped in the celebratory energy of Kaamatan season. The production beautifully highlights the richness of Sabah’s people and places while giving rising local talents a well-deserved spotlight.




The ensemble cast features Nigel Duis, Albert Paulus, Glenn Gisil, and Jason Labunda, alongside Bianca Sakaian reprising her role as Dora. Adding further glamour to the screen are special appearances by Queenera Francine, Mike Ford, Cora Jean, Datuk Julita Majungki, Datuk Philip Golingai, as well as former Unduk Ngadau titleholders Velleryn Vivienne and Clerice Olivia Augustine.

More Than Just A Film

Producer Genevieve Duis describes the project as a heartfelt cultural movement rather than just another production.

“This project has always been about more than just making a film. It is about telling our stories in our own voice, celebrating the people we recognise, the places we love, and the humour that feels very much like home.”

Produced as a non-commercial cultural initiative, the film serves as a creative platform for Sabah’s emerging talents, filmmakers, and collaborators. Shot across multiple districts in Sabah, Ini Kali Lah becomes both a visual love letter and a proud celebration of identity, heritage, and community spirit.


Lorena Binisol Writer On-The-Go Editor-In-Chief
Getting up-close with director Johan John

Premiering on 31 May 2026 across NorthBorneoTV’s digital platforms, the film closes the trilogy with cinematic flair and emotional resonance. More than just entertainment, Ini Kali Lah – A Kaamatan Story stands as a modern cultural landmark, one that honours Sabah’s storytelling spirit while leaving audiences with a lingering sense of nostalgia, pride, and belonging.


Lorena with producer Genevieve and
one of the lead actress Bianca

Together with Vinoun Films, NorthBorneoTV continues to champion meaningful visual narratives rooted deeply in Sabah’s culture, proving that local stories, when told authentically, possess the power to travel far beyond the screen.


https://www.youtube.com/@NorthBorneoTV/


Location: Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

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