Harold Egn Eswar, Ajjak Bacteria, and Mukmin Nantang: Voices of Change in Sabah
In the heart of Sabah, Malaysia, three individuals stand at the forefront of cultural advocacy and social activism: Harold Egn Eswar, Ajjak Bacteria, and Mukmin Nantang. Each, in their unique capacity, contributes to a collective movement that seeks to amplify marginalized voices, preserve indigenous heritage, and challenge systemic injustices.
Harold Egn Eswar, known as "Egn," is a contemporary artist and architectural designer based in Kota Kinabalu. His artistic journey began in 2006, and he has since developed a distinctive approach to storytelling through his "Spatial Biography Documentation" series. This project involves creating AutoCAD drawings that map out personal histories, transforming them into vibrant visual narratives. Influenced by street art and doodling, Egn's work captures the experiences of marginalized communities, offering a platform for their stories to be heard. BASKL
Beyond his art, Egn is the host of The Sip Sip Show, a YouTube series that features interviews with local creatives, musicians, and activists. The show serves as a platform for sharing stories and fostering dialogue within the Sabah creative community.
Ajjak Bacteria is a teacher and social activist based in Sabah. He is known for his involvement in community initiatives that aim to empower marginalized groups through education and advocacy. Ajjak's work focuses on addressing social issues and promoting inclusivity, particularly within the indigenous communities of Sabah. His efforts align with the broader mission of Borneo Komrad, a collective movement dedicated to social change.
Mukmin Nantang is a teacher and social activist who founded Borneo Komrad, an NGO focused on providing education to stateless and marginalized children in Sabah. Through initiatives like Sekolah Alternatif, Mukmin and his team offer free education to children who lack formal documentation, teaching subjects such as writing, sewing, and cooking. The school also addresses real-world issues like child marriage and exploitation, equipping students with practical skills to navigate their circumstances. Scoop+5Wiki Impact+5Wiki Impact+5Malaysiakini
In 2024, Mukmin launched Universiti Alternatif in Semporna, providing tertiary education to Bajau Laut youths. The university focuses on understanding identity, history, and community rights, aiming to empower students to advocate for their marginalized communities. Scoop+1Wiki Impact+1Wiki Impact+1Scoop+1
Borneo Komrad is a collective movement initiated by students and young activists to advocate for social issues such as education, culture, and human rights. Founded from the merger of Kelab Sastera Mahasiswa (KARMA) and Suara Mahasiswa at Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Borneo Komrad aims to build an independent and grassroots movement. The organization operates alternative schools and engages in cultural advocacy, striving to empower marginalized communities through education and activism. borneokomrad.net
To learn more about the work of Harold Egn Eswar, Ajjak Bacteria, and Mukmin Nantang, and to support their initiatives, consider visiting the following links:
Harold Egn Eswar: Instagram, The Sip Sip Show
Ajjak Bacteria: Facebook
Mukmin Nantang: Instagram, Borneo Komrad
Sekolah Alternatif Borneo Komrad: Sekolah Alternatif
We encourage you to engage with their work and share your thoughts in the comments below. How do you perceive the role of art and education in social activism? What impact do you think initiatives like Borneo Komrad have on marginalized communities? Let's continue the conversation and support these changemakers in their efforts to create a more inclusive and just society.
Harold Egn Eswar: Mapping Stories of the MarginalizedAjjak Bacteria: Educator and AdvocateMukmin Nantang: Champion of Stateless ChildrenBorneo Komrad: A Collective Movement for Social ChangeJoin the Conversation