Latest news with #BorneoCulturalFestival
Borneo Post
3 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Council vows to boost tourism in Sibu
Ting (third right) receives a souvenir from Sheikh Awadh after officiating at the opening of Matta Sibu Fair 2025. Others on-stage are (from left) Kang, Mok, Ling and Maurice. SIBU (July 27): The Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to boosting the domestic tourism sector through the organisation of large-scale events such as the Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF), which recorded its 20th edition this year. SMC chairman Clarence Ting hailed the recently-concluded festival as not only a platform to celebrate Sarawak's cultural diversity, but also a key driver in attracting visitors to Sibu. 'We believe domestic tourism is the backbone of local economic development, and BCF is a clear testament to our continuous effort to showcase Borneo's cultural uniqueness to visitors nationwide,' he said when officiating at the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) Sibu Fair 2025 here yesterday. Although not as prominent as regional-level events such as the Kuching Food Festival, Ting said the response to this year's BCF was encouraging, with a notable increase in income for local traders. 'This event not only draws tourists but also creates opportunities for small entrepreneurs and cultural performers to grow,' he added. Commenting on the Matta Sibu Fair 2025, Ting welcomed the strong participation from travel agencies and industry players, which he said reflected confidence in Sarawak's, particularly Sibu's, tourism potential. 'Although the regional economy is slowing down, platforms like the Matta Fair can breathe new life into the local tourism sector. 'It also opens up opportunities for investments and collaborations among industry players.' Meanwhile, Matta Sibu Fair organising committee chairman Patrick Ling said this year's edition featured 32 exhibition booths, covering both domestic and international destinations. 'We are offering a variety of holiday packages, from nature-based destinations to unique cultural experiences. 'Our goal is to rekindle public interest in travelling while supporting the nation's tourism economy,' he added. Also present were Matta deputy president Sheikh Awadh Sheikh Abdullah, MATTA Sarawak deputy chairman Mok Venia, Sarawak Tourism Board senior director Maurice Balang and RHB Bank regional sales head Linda Kang. Clarence Ting sibu municipal council tourism
The Star
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Pageant of grace and Dayak cultural pride
Mesha (seated), Axiomara (left) and Emily with their prizes. The grand finale of the Miss Borneo Dayak Cultural Festival 2025 saw 10 finalists showcasing their beauty and culture. College student Mesha Carlynie Jess took home the coveted title at the event held at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phase 1, Sibu, in conjunction with the Borneo Cultural Festival in Sarawak. The 22-year-old banking diploma student from Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Mukah impressed judges and the audience with her poise and grace. 'I was surprised and overjoyed as I didn't expect to win this competition,' said Mesha. 'I'm very pleased with the result because it reflects the hard work I put in before and during the event,' said Mesha. She received RM4,000 cash, a crown, sash, trophy, certificate and gift hamper. Mesha said she had to travel frequently between Mukah and Sibu to attend classes as well as the finalist selection and rehearsals. Originally from Kapit, she is no stranger to Kumang (traditional beauty contest) competitions, having taken part in over 20 since 2022 and winning several of them. 'Through Kumang competitions, I aim to send the message that true beauty lies not only in appearance, but also in knowledge, self-confidence and cultural pride,' she said. 'I hope to elevate Dayak traditions so they remain appreciated and are embraced by the younger generation,' she added. Axiomara Tijan Andy was named first runner-up and won RM3,000, while Emily Rinya Lenggang was second runner-up with RM2,000. Both also received sashes, trophies, hampers and certificates. Each of the other finalists – Natasha Malviana, Manisha Vyonnie, Amenda Alannie, Jatitup Nyambar, Daphne Herbeck Ilam, Nelly Mujan and Melanie Joyce – received RM1,000 and a certificate of appreciation. The 10 finalists were selected from an initial pool of 24 contestants to showcase their beauty and cultural pride on the grand stage, while donning intricate and traditional Orang Ulu attire. National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang launched the event.
Barnama
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Barnama
SMC Makes Malaysia Book Of Records With 18.3m Melanau Swing
SIBU, July 13 (Bernama) -- The Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) has earned a place in the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) with the itut, an 18.3-metre traditional Melanau swing, built as a highlight of this year's Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF). Erected at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phase 1 by members of the Persatuan Kebajikan Melanau Kampung Nangka, the ride attracted a total of 2,288 visitors, exceeding the initial target of 2,000, thanks to the favourable weather throughout the 10-day festival, which began on July 3. SMC chairman Clarence Ting Ing Horh received the MBOR certificate from its representative, Edwin Yeoh, during the closing ceremony of the 21st edition of BCF last night, officiated by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian. Dr Sim said BCF 2025 had successfully showcased the rich diversity of Borneo's culture, music and ethnic traditions through a variety of performances, community-driven activities and cultural exhibitions. 'Over the past 10 days, the public has had the opportunity to witness the creativity and traditions of diverse communities, which also helped strengthen unity and reinforce the Bornean identity,' he said in his speech read by the State Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee. He extended his appreciation to the individuals, government agencies, cultural practitioners, traders, and enforcement officers involved for their commitment in ensuring the smooth running of this year's festival. Dr Sim noted that events like the festival not only serve as entertainment platforms but also play a crucial role in strengthening social bonds, promoting tourism and enhancing public well-being. 'These are key elements in building resilient, cohesive, and culturally-rooted communities,' he added. He congratulated SMC and its co-organisers on what he called one of the most successful editions of BCF, expressing hope that the spirit of unity and cultural appreciation shown throughout will continue to thrive in the community.
The Sun
13-07-2025
- The Sun
Sibu sets Malaysia record with 18.3m Melanau swing at cultural fest
SIBU: The Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) has secured a spot in the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) with its towering 18.3-metre Melanau swing, known as the itut. Built as the centrepiece of this year's Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF), the swing became a major attraction, drawing 2,288 visitors, surpassing the initial target of 2,000. The swing was constructed by members of the Persatuan Kebajikan Melanau Kampung Nangka at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phase 1. Favorable weather throughout the 10-day festival, which ran from July 3, contributed to the high turnout. During the closing ceremony of the 21st BCF, SMC chairman Clarence Ting Ing Horh received the MBOR certificate from Edwin Yeoh, a representative of the record-keeping body. The event was officiated by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian. Dr Sim praised the festival for successfully highlighting Borneo's cultural diversity through performances, exhibitions, and community activities. 'Over the past 10 days, the public has had the opportunity to witness the creativity and traditions of diverse communities, which also helped strengthen unity and reinforce the Bornean identity,' he said in a speech read by State Deputy Minister Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee. He commended organisers, government agencies, and participants for ensuring the festival's smooth execution. Dr Sim emphasised that such events go beyond entertainment, playing a vital role in fostering social cohesion, boosting tourism, and enhancing community well-being. The festival featured over 30 ethnic groups, with activities ranging from musical performances to traditional food bazaars. Dr Sim expressed hope that the unity and cultural appreciation displayed during BCF 2025 would continue to flourish. - Bernama
Borneo Post
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
SMC enters Malaysia Book of Records with iconic ‘itut' at BCF 2025
Yeoh (fifth left) hands over the MBOR certificate to Ting, witnessed by Tiang (sixth left), while Kampung Nangka Melanau Welfare Association chairman Councillor, Abang Carrol Abang Dris, who is also the itut organising chairman (right), Chieng (third left), Ling (fourth left), (from second right) Joshua, Hii, Lau and others look on. – Photo by Peter Boon SIBU (July 12): The Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) has made it into the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) for the highest number of visitors swinging on the 50-foot 'itut' – a traditional Melanau swing – set up at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phase 1 during this year's Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF). A total of 2,288 people took part, surpassing the original target of 2,000. MBOR representative Edwin Yeoh presented the certificate to SMC chairman Clarence Ting during the BCF closing ceremony tonight, witnessed by Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang. In a speech read by Tiang, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said festivals like BCF not only entertain but foster social cohesion, tourism, and public well-being. 'They build social cohesion, attract tourism, and promote public well-being by fostering pride in our identity and locality. 'These are elements critical to the fabric of strong, resilient communities, something we prioritize in our public health and development agendas,' he said. Dr Sim also commended the dedication of attendees, performers, vendors, and enforcement personnel who ensured the success and safety of the event. 'Your engagement keeps the spirit of BCF alive and relevant in every passing year. 'As we close this year's edition, I encourage everyone to carry forward the goodwill, knowledge, and appreciation gained. Let 'The Rhythm of Borneo' guide us in building inclusive communities where culture continues to thrive,' he said. Earlier, BCF organising chairman and SMC deputy chairman Mohammed Abdullah Izkandar Roseley said this year's edition stood out for its unity and renewed spirit. 'We saw new talents take to the stage with confidence, alongside cultural groups who have long championed the preservation of ancestral heritage. 'We tasted the richness of cuisines from various communities, admired crafts that blended tradition and innovation, and appreciated diversity with open hearts. 'This is the true beauty of the festival,' he said. The evening featured traditional dance performances and a prize presentation for the Food Premises Toilet Cleanliness Competition. Also present at the event were Sibu MP Oscar Ling, Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng, Senator Robert Lau, Deputy State Secretary (operation) Datu Hii Chang Kee, Sibu Resident Abang Mohamad Porkan Abang Budiman, Political Secretary to Premier Joshua Ting, BCF deputy organising chairlady Cr Michelle Law, and acting Consul-General of the Republic of Indonesia in Kuching, Musa Derek Sairwona.
