Monsopiad

Monsopiad is a legendary figure among the Kadazan-Dusun people of Sabah, Malaysia, celebrated as a warrior and headhunter who is said to have slain enemies and collected their heads as trophies. The tale has been handed down in oral tradition and remains an important element of Kadazan-Dusun folklore, illustrating themes of protection of the community and deterrence.

The Monsopiad legend has several variants; details vary by clan and storyteller, with some accounts locating him in a particular region near Penampang. The core motif is that his skull collection served to deter rival groups and safeguard his people, though modern retellings emphasize cultural memory and identity rather than glorifying violence.

Monsopiad Heritage Village is a cultural site established by the Kadazan-Dusun community in Penampang, Sabah, near Kota Kinabalu. It preserves the Monsopiad story and Kadazan-Dusun heritage through a recreated longhouse, guided tours, traditional music and dance performances, craft demonstrations, and exhibits about local customs, daily life, and beliefs. The site also features displays linked to the headhunting legend, presented in a respectful, historical context.

The village is a notable tourist attraction and educational resource, helping to promote awareness of Sabah's indigenous cultures. It operates within the broader framework of Sabah's cultural tourism and the preservation of intangible heritage.