PLBS eyes record book entry through mass dance attempt

MIRI: The Lun Bawang Association Sarawak ( PLBS) will attempt to enter the Malaysia Book of Records with the ‘Most Number of Participants in an Alai Telandi Dance’ at Lawas Town Square this June 2, commencing at 9am.

According to PLBS Youth chief Petrus Lasong, the attempt will coincide with the opening of the annual Lun Bawang Festival – better known as ‘ Irau Aco Lun Bawang’ – organised by the youth wing of the association.

Themed ‘Ayu Inul Pupu Tau’ ( Nation’s Cultural Heritage), the festival will feature many fun- filled activities from May 31 to June 3.

“Over 3, 000 participants will join the ‘ Alai Telandi’ dance. I would like to encourage members of the public, especially the Lun Bawangs, to come in traditional costumes to support our attempt to enter the record book,” said Petrus, who is also the festival organising chairman.

The organiser targets to host over 30,000 festival- goers, including those from Brunei and Indonesia, this year.

“We look forward to promoting traditional sports to youths and visitors throughout the festival.

“PLBS branch members and those representing several nearby villages will compete in 12 sports events. Some Lun Bawang folks games and traditional sports will also be conducted, where they are open to all visitors, especially the foreigners,” he said, adding that a traditional Lun Bawang wedding ceremony would also take place during the festival.

The ‘ Cultural Night and Fundraising Dinner’ is set to enliven the atmosphere further with nine cultural groups performing including the ‘Bamboo Band’, the ‘Angklung and Pritubang’, as well as special showcases from Sabah Murut Cultural Ethnic Group, Rolling Thunder Band and several Lun Bawang artistes.

The visitors can also tour the exhibition, where various agencies will set up their booths. There will also be stalls selling traditional food and handicrafts.

“The highlight of the festival is the crowning of Lun Bawang’s ‘Ruran Ulung’ and ‘ Padan Liu Burung’ – a pageant hosting 16 contestants from Brunei, Sabah and Sarawak.

“The festival is a great platform to learn more about the Lun Bawang community, and an event not to be missed,” Petrus said.

Petrus (seated, fourth right) with members of the organising committee in a photo-call after a meeting with Limbang District Officer Jamalie Busri, who is on Petrus’ right.