The Sugud Uprising

Written by H. Joplin Mosiun 

March 30, 2023

Dear reader, please acknowledge or cite the blog and author of the article if you wish to use any information on this site. Cheers!

Part 9 of the history and origins of the Penampang Kadazan.

The Bangkaakon and Tangara were known for their intense rivalry. During a badi (market), each group would send their best warriors to compete in the bosoungan (cockfighting pit), showcasing their martial art skills, botibas (war dances) performances, and physical strength and agility.¹ 

Duels were premeditated and held on riverbanks, while witnessed by only a few spectators including Bobohizans who conducted special rituals. The stakes were high with the loser not only forfeiting their land but also facing the risk of losing their life, as the winner would claim the loser's head.  

The conflict in Sugud wasn't just a clash between the Bangkaakon and the Tangara, but rather a revolt of the people against the Huguan Siou. During a period of lawlessness, warlords and gangs operating under the leadership of Datu Botulung, tarnished the reputation of the alliance. Tension permeated the atmosphere in Sugud, where men from various clans had gathered to openly defy the Huguan Siou and his cohorts. Armed and ready for battle, both sides faced off against each other. 

As the battle dragged on, Tuguk, a notorious warlord and headhunter fled to the Maang area and sought refuge in a small cave.² However, his attempt to conceal his whereabouts failed, as warriors led by Tizung, the head of the Pungiton longhouse, discovered and killed him.³

In his old age, the once revered Botulung met his end. He was bound to a timadang (a type of fruit of the Artocarpus genus) tree and impaled, while seven Bobohizans prayed over him.⁴ The execution of Botulung served as an example of how the common people expressed their anger towards corrupt warlords who plundered them.

To be continued.

---

Notes
1 Interview with George Doivin in 2005^↩
2 I first heard the folk story from Lucia Ginunggil in 1995.^↩
3 Martin Midi recorded this version of the story of Tuguk, which was exhibited during the Maang Peace Protest in 2005.^↩
4 Interview with Sibius Kaahin on October 21, 2012.^↩