Reclaiming gendered spaces before the mountain God:exploring women's resilience in urbanising Kundasang, Sabah in Malaysia

This working paper examines the intersection of gender, space, and agency among indigenous women in rural Sabah, Malaysia, with a focus on the communities of Kundasang District. Geographical spaces, shaped historically by patriarchal systems, often impose barriers for women, particularly in rural contexts. Drawing on anthropological fieldwork conducted between early 2023 and mid-2024 in Kampung Cinta Mata and Kampung Bundu Tuhan, this study explores how indigenous women reclaim agency and challenge patriarchal norms by navigating, creating, and transforming female-gendered spaces before Aki Nabalu, the revered mountain God of the state of Sabah. Engaging with spirituality and development, these women assert their roles in shaping gender and identity amidst socio-economic and political conflicts in Sabah. The findings highlight their resilience, adaptive strategies, and deep connection to their environment, which they regard as a living, sacred entity. The women’s connection fosters a collective sense of identity and responsibility, extending beyond land and heritage to include the preservation of collective memory and spiritual knowledge of the mountain, deemed vital for future generations. Through collective action, they redefine peripheral spaces as vibrant sources of resilience, demonstrating that empowerment transcends traditional leadership roles. In the face of mass gentrification, these communities illustrate how gender, spirituality, and ecological preservation intersect to create a sustainable and culturally rich future. This paper contributes to broader discussions on gender, space, and resistance, offering valuable insights into the dynamics of rural development and cultural preservation in Southeast Asia and beyond.