BCF blends culture, tourism to boost local economy, says Tiong
SIBU (July 6): Events like the Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF) not only facilitate cultural exchange but also help stimulate the local economy and tourism, said Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Dato Sri Tiong King Sing.
According to Tiong, the annual festival attracts tourists, photographers, food lovers, and culture enthusiasts to Sibu, which in turn benefits sectors such as food and beverages (F&B), hospitality, transportation, and retail.
'The 2025 Borneo Cultural Festival carries the theme 'Rhythm of Borneo', and stands as a major cultural event in Sibu. The programme lineup, including the Chinese Night, Malay-Melanau Night, and Dayak Night, offers an immersive cultural experience through creative presentations.
'It fosters the sustainable inheritance of traditional culture—because culture is not a static exhibit; it lives on through the participation of generations,' Tiong said.
Tiong's text-of-speech was read out by his special duties officer Agatha Ting, who represented him at the function.
'By embedding traditional culture into tourism products and services, we enhance the experience, uniqueness, and cultural value. Through such tourism products, traditional culture can become a signature industry, stimulate local economic growth, and offer diverse income opportunities for the people.
'Therefore, I encourage everyone to explore innovative ways to promote traditional culture – preserving its cultural essence while aligning with modern trends, aesthetics, new media promotion, and festival marketing such as this event.'
The Bintulu MP was elated to note that many Chinese associations have enthusiastically participated by showcasing traditional delicacies.
Visitors not only get to observe how these foods are made but can also taste and buy them—offering a wonderful platform for cultural exchange
Also speaking at the event were Bawang Assan assemblyman Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh and United Chinese Association (UCA) Sibu president Lau Ing Siong.
Meanwhile, Tiong also announced a grant of RM50,000 to UCA Sibu through Ting. borneo cultural festival Tiong King Sing tourism
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