Sa'ung weaving contest showcases Kenyah Badeng heritage at Kebana Festival in Miri
MIRI (June 20): The inaugural Sa'ung Weaving Competition held during the Kebana Festival here recently brought together weavers from across Sarawak in a vibrant celebration of Kenyah Badeng heritage and craftsmanship.
Event spokesperson Hilary Samah Tet said the competition aimed not only to recognise weaving talent but also foster community participation, cultural pride and intergenerational learning.
'The competition was not just about winning – it was a platform for preserving tradition and passing down valuable skills to the younger generation,' he said in a statement.
He added that the organisers are looking to make the event an annual feature in efforts to sustain and promote the traditional art form.
The competition was inspired by the recent return of the original sa'ung – the iconic dome-shaped Kenyang Badeng sunhat – from the Pitt Rivers Museum in the United Kingdom.
More than 15 weavers from Long Busang in Belaga, as well as Bintulu, Miri, and Kuching, took part in the event on May 31.
Participants were challenged to recreate the sa'ung using traditional techniques and materials, with some opting to incorporate contemporary elements such as varnished finishes, prompting discussions on the balance between innovation and authenticity.
Epa Erang took home first prize and title of inaugural champion, ahead of Aria Gong and Monica Sedai Uchat who secured second and third places respectively.
Consolation prizes went to Rosalind Anek Olleh and Asa Anyan.
A skilled artisan from Long Busang, Epa's sa'ung was crafted from bamboo using 'seling' – the smooth outer layer of bamboo.
Judges commended her for the precision and authenticity of her work, which required skilled hands and meticulous preparation.
The competition was held as part of the wider Kebana Festival, which aims to promote Kenyah culture and strengthen indigenous identity through arts, crafts and community-driven events. Kebana Festival Kenyah Badeng miri Sa'ung Weaving Competition
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