Record-breaking ‘itut' to swing into action at BCF 2025
Abang Carrol (standing sixth left) joins the volunteer crew for a group photo following the successful installation of the itut today.
SIBU (June 28): A record-breaking 'itut' — a giant Melanau swing measuring 50 feet in height — has been erected at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phase I for the upcoming 21st Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF), set to take place from July 3 to 12.
Kampung Nangka Melanau Welfare Association chairman, Councillor Abang Carrol Abang Dris, said the itut has become a symbolic highlight of the festival since its introduction in 2015.
'This marks the 11th consecutive year that the itut has been featured at the BCF. It is gaining popularity as it attracts people of all backgrounds to participate,' he told The Borneo Post when met during the ceremonial installation of the swing today.
Abang Carrol, who also chairs the itut organising committee, noted that this year's structure stands slightly taller than last year's 46-foot version.
He explained that the swing's poles were sourced from the Permai area, while the steps were crafted using logs from Kampung Banyok.
'Due to the nature of the timber used, the logs are only suitable for one-time use. We will dismantle the itut after the festival and replace it annually. Typically, the wood lasts only up to six months,' he said.
The swing will be open to the public from 7pm to 11pm throughout the festival.
Last year, organisers faced challenges in achieving their target of 100 participants per day due to three consecutive days of rain.
This year, they hope to attract up to 1,200 visitors over the course of the celebration.
Abang Carrol highlighted that the itut has evolved into an inclusive attraction, drawing increasing participation beyond the Melanau community, especially among children.
'This is the most meaningful part- bringing people together in unity through a traditional activity,' he said.
On safety, he stressed that strict precautions are in place.
'We ensure participants are fit to use the swing. Individuals with high blood pressure, a fear of heights, or those under the influence of alcohol are not permitted to participate,' he said.
He also pointed out that the swing would be closed during rain to prioritise public safety.
Construction of the itut involved the installation of two large poles with the assistance of a crane and support from volunteers and government agency representatives.
A test run is scheduled for Monday (July 1).
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Record-breaking ‘itut' to swing into action at BCF 2025
Abang Carrol (standing sixth left) joins the volunteer crew for a group photo following the successful installation of the itut today. SIBU (June 28): A record-breaking 'itut' — a giant Melanau swing measuring 50 feet in height — has been erected at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phase I for the upcoming 21st Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF), set to take place from July 3 to 12. Kampung Nangka Melanau Welfare Association chairman, Councillor Abang Carrol Abang Dris, said the itut has become a symbolic highlight of the festival since its introduction in 2015. 'This marks the 11th consecutive year that the itut has been featured at the BCF. It is gaining popularity as it attracts people of all backgrounds to participate,' he told The Borneo Post when met during the ceremonial installation of the swing today. Abang Carrol, who also chairs the itut organising committee, noted that this year's structure stands slightly taller than last year's 46-foot version. He explained that the swing's poles were sourced from the Permai area, while the steps were crafted using logs from Kampung Banyok. 'Due to the nature of the timber used, the logs are only suitable for one-time use. We will dismantle the itut after the festival and replace it annually. Typically, the wood lasts only up to six months,' he said. The swing will be open to the public from 7pm to 11pm throughout the festival. Last year, organisers faced challenges in achieving their target of 100 participants per day due to three consecutive days of rain. This year, they hope to attract up to 1,200 visitors over the course of the celebration. Abang Carrol highlighted that the itut has evolved into an inclusive attraction, drawing increasing participation beyond the Melanau community, especially among children. 'This is the most meaningful part- bringing people together in unity through a traditional activity,' he said. On safety, he stressed that strict precautions are in place. 'We ensure participants are fit to use the swing. Individuals with high blood pressure, a fear of heights, or those under the influence of alcohol are not permitted to participate,' he said. He also pointed out that the swing would be closed during rain to prioritise public safety. Construction of the itut involved the installation of two large poles with the assistance of a crane and support from volunteers and government agency representatives. A test run is scheduled for Monday (July 1).
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