Orang Ulu heritage shines at 2025 Datun Julut, sape competition in Miri
MIRI (June 13): The rich cultural heritage of the Orang Ulu community was on full display last night during the 2025 Datun Julut and Traditional Sape Competition.
Held at the Federation of Orang Ulu Associations Sarawak Malaysia (Forum) Cultural Centre, the event was part of the two-day Gawai Tradition Carnival.
Sarawak Deputy Minister of Utility and Telecommunications, Datuk Liwan Lagang in his officiating address, underscored the importance of preserving traditional art forms such as the Datun Julut dance and the melodious sounds of the Sape, which he described as vital symbols of the Orang Ulu identity and legacy.
'These are not just artistic performances. Datun Julut is a symbolic dance of gratitude, with graceful movements adorned in bird feathers, accompanied by the Sape, a soulful voice of tradition that stirs our spiritual being,' he said.
He emphasised that the preservation of such cultural expressions is a shared responsibility, particularly for the younger generation, who will inherit both the land and its traditions.
'The beauty of Orang Ulu culture reflects the uniqueness of Sarawak, with its rich ethnic diversity and deeply rooted traditions. These must be safeguarded with deep respect, lest they fade with time,' he added.
Liwan also highlighted that celebrations like Gawai are more than festive occasions.
'They serve as bridges of unity, bringing people of all backgrounds together through mutual appreciation of culture.
'Through this competition, we ignite the spirit of Segulai Sejalai – walking together in unity,' he said.
The event saw participation from 20 groups competing in both the Datun Julut and Traditional Sape categories. In the Datun Julut category, team Julut Abung Apau Julan emerged as the champion, followed by Telang Usan Mada Lasan as first runner-up and Liwang Edang in third place.
In the Traditional Sape competition, the duo of Garry Sandom Raymond and Aaron Alan Robert claimed the top prize. The sibling pair Robin Jalong Lusat and Yosua Lenjau Lusat secured second place, while Batu Emang and Logan Suli finished third.
Also present at the event were the carnival's joint chairmen, Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Labour, Immigration, and Project Monitoring), Datuk Gerawat Gala; Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau, and Baram MP Dato Anyi Ngau. Datun Julut miri Orang Ulu sape
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