Folktales and Heritage History of Tamparuli Bridge
By: Lee Bih Ni
Publisher: Kota Kinabalu Desktop Publisher
Published: 4 Feb 2026
Description: This engaging book weaves together the rich cultural heritage and enduring legends surrounding the iconic Tamparuli Bridge in Sabah, Malaysia, blending historical facts with the evocative folktales that have shaped local identity. Through vivid storytelling and contextual history, readers encounter the famed legend of Solungkoi—a beautiful maiden whose ultimate sacrifice is said to have ensured the bridge’s strength and longevity, reflecting deep spiritual beliefs tied to the Kiulu River and community understandings of place and resilience (Sabah Tourism Board; Sarawak Tribune). The narrative also explores how the bridge’s story has been celebrated in song and performance, most notably through the popular Kadazandusun folk song “Jambatan Tamparuli,” and preserved in festivals and artistic interpretations that honor tradition while inviting reflection on cultural continuity. Rich with local voices and heritage insights, the book offers an immersive journey through time, illuminating how one structure transcends mere functionality to become a living symbol of love, sacrifice, and collective memory.