Still, as someone to whom the connection to the "Huminodun" virtues is new, you may not see the connection of the beauty pageant to harvest festival celebrations.
Proponents or supporters of the "Unduk Ngadau" pageant, argue that this is to honor "Huminodun" the beautiful daughter of the Kadazan's "Kinoingan" or God. According to the story, the beautiful Huminodun sacrificed herself whereby the different parts of her body became the Kadazan people's various sources of food. She died so that the Kadazans (and all other human beings) will live. This indicates characteristics that are valued more than physical beauty.
Detractors or those who do not support the beauty pageant put forward the argument that it cheapens Kadazan girls and women.
It is understood (said) that the first Harvest Festival did not feature a beauty pageant. It is not very clear when the first harvest festival beauty contest was held. Now, the selection and crowning of the Harvest Festival Queen seems to have become the main attraction of Harvest Festivals.