Longhouse youth group weaves local culture into Christmas celebration
SIBU: Members of PR Crew get all dressed up for Christmas every year, but unlike other youths, their ensembles highlight the group’s objective of celebrating unity amidst diversity.
The youth body of Rumah Martenus Nyuram at Sungai Assan near here would don costumes of various ethnic groups in Sarawak come Yuletide, especially for special performances held in celebration of the festive occasion.
“Our way of celebration is uniquely Sarawakian,” said PR Crew founder Ellora Martinus.
She said Christmas at their longhouse was more than just a celebration.
“The longhouse folk here are made up of various races through mixed marriages. So every Christmas, we would all gather as one big, harmonious family.
“As you can see here, we are all dressed up in these beautiful traditional costumes that represent our diverse ethnic heritage,” she said.
However, Ellora said Christmas was also a time to observe ageold tradition – one of which the sumptuous spread served on the eve of the day itself.
“This is really what many of us are looking forward to.”
On PR Crew, she said it served as a platform for all youths of Rumah Martenus Nyuram to gather and celebrate the special occasions.
“We dance, sing and also host and play various games to further enliven the celebratory mood,” she added.
Last night, members of the PR Crew held a special Christmas programme at the longhouse.