Mingsingilo Lilihis: Bengkel Asas Momolihis

About the Workshop

Mingsingilo Momolihis (meaning “learning to chant traditional poetry”) is a cultural workshop designed for community and school settings.  Under this workshop is Bengkel Asas Mingsingilo Momolihis which introduces participants to the basic techniques of momolihis – a method of chanting Dusunik poetry that emphasises alignment with nature, vocal rhythm, and expressive gestures. The workshop also supports the Kadazandusun language curriculum (BKD), while nurturing courage, creativity, and a strong sense of cultural identity.

Workshop Structure – Three Separate Workshops

A total of three workshops are organised, all using the same beginner level module. Each workshop follows a group-based, interactive learning approach through five interconnected modules: voice training (Mokira), poetry chanting (Momolihis), language play (Mamarangkai), exploring symbols and customs (Monorisid), and self-reflection (Minsingilo).

The three workshops are divided by target age group as follows:

• Two workshops – Specially designed for pre-school children (ages 4–6 years old)

• One workshop – Open to beginners of any age (children above 6, teenagers, adults, seniors)

No prior experience is required. These workshops focus solely on the beginner level; there is no advanced module at this stage.

Organiser & Vision

This module was developed by Gonding Gen (ITISUNDU) – the Traditional Literature Organisation of Kg Bundu Tuhan, Ranau. It serves as a strategic tool to sustain Dusunik poetry heritage, strengthen cultural identity, and adapt traditional practices to modern contexts without losing their original values. The curriculum is delivered through workshops, classes, tutorial sessions, and knowledge-sharing gatherings.

Key Information

Target Audience: Pre-school children (4–6 years) for two workshops; beginners of any age for one workshop.

Language: Conducted in Dusun and/or Malay, depending on participant needs.

Additional Notes

Mingsingilo = to learn

Momolihis = to chant traditional poetry