Animating Oral Traditions: A Qualitative Evaluation of 2D Media for Preserving Sabah’s Heritage

Abstract

The present article studies how 2D animation adaptations could preserve and communicate Sabah's indigenous narratives using qualitative data from written interviews and content analysis of five student-produced 2D films. The subject matter addresses the cultural significance, authenticity, and intergenerational reach of animated folktales, turning findings into production checklists and classroom-ready supplementary material. A qualitative design comprises written interviews with cultural participants and a content analysis of five short films: Susuzan Do Nulu Kinabalu (2024), Solungkoi (2023), Legend of Batu Luang (2024), The Tale of Kumokodong (2025), and Tales of Hantu Bubu (2024). These animated media are examined through reflexive theme analysis. The authors acknowledged that using written interviews has methodological drawbacks when compared to oral interviews, especially this methodology lacks the ability to capture nonverbal clues and the natural spontaneity that comes with face-to-face interaction. The findings revealed four themes: cultural identity and values, storytelling medium and reach, authenticity and portrayal, and intergenerational transmission. Participants described animation as accessible to youth and global audiences when symbols, language, and story integrity are protected through early and continuous collaboration with cultural custodians. For practical applications and significance, the study provides a five-criterion authenticity rubric, a four-step production pipeline, and contextual advice to help with authentic adaptation and cultural learning in classrooms and communities.