Freviarra wins Pekit Kumang Raban Ngepan Iban 2018
MIRI: Freviarra Pearl Francis, 23 who represented Sri Aman Division defeated 13 other finalists to emerge champion of the state-level Pekit Kumang Raban Ngepan Iban ( RNI) 2018 held at Bintang Megamall here recently.
Freviarra, a staff nurse from Sri Aman walked away with cash prize of RM500, and a bouquet of flowers. In the Keling category, the winner is Hendrick Anthony from Sibu who represented Kapit.
Hendrick, 23 also received RM500 and a bouquet of flowers,
Assistant Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Lee Kim Shin officiated at the event.
Freviarra and Hendrick although seasoned Kumang and Keling contestants were both fi rst timer in the contest organised by RNI. Both were very pleased to have been adjudged the talent champions and thanked RNI for organising the competition.
“This is the first time I contested in a talent contest specifically for Iban cultures and traditional songs and dances – Kumang Pengelandik Adat Main Asal Bangsa Iban.
“I firmly believe it is a very good platform for us the younger generation to learn and appreciate our cultures to showcase to others too,” said Freviarra who presented the Ansah’.
Hendrick who captivated his skill in ‘ Pantun Sabak Pulai’ meanwhile said “contest like this will inspire us not just to unearth our skills but also to understand, appreciate and nurture our rich cultural heritage and share them with others including tourists.”
Adriel Nyawai Robin, the reigning Keling RNI 2017 and one of the panel of nine-member judges too was pleased with the high standard of performances by all the 14 Kumang and 10 Keling finalists for RNI 2018.
“However much needed to be done and for aspiring contestants, you need to have indepth knowledge on cultures and traditions of the Iban and also other races apart from general knowledge.
“But on top of that, self- confidence and ‘ Bejawang Ai communication skill are vital so that you can present and perform well and thus have better chances of winning,” said Adriel when met by the Borneo Post.
RNI president and organising chairman Steven Abas Patrick Agus and his deputy Charles Doll Stanley, chief panel of the 9-member judges and village headwoman Nujia Tinsui were among those present .
Steven thanked Lee for providing RM15,000 in government grant towards the cost of organising the competition and also others who supported the event.
He hoped that RNI could be exemplary to youths of other communities in inspiring the younger generation to learn, appreciate and nurture their rich cultural heritage.
RNI Kumang and Keling competition is open to Iban youths aged 18 to 26 years.