Iconic BCF arch to feature again this year

SIBU: The iconic Borneo Cultural Festival ( BCF) arch built in 2017 will again be featured at this year’s BCF, Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) deputy chairwoman Rogayah Jamain said yesterday.

“This time around, a mini stage will be built behind the arch to spruce up the festival,” she said, adding that the arch will be erected at the same spot as last year at Sibu Town Square Phase 1.

BCF, which was first staged in 2002 to showcase a magnitude of colourful cultures, heritage and the diverse ethnicity of Sarawak,

This time around, a mini stage will be built behind the arch to spruce up the festival. Rogayah Jamain, Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) deputy chairwoman

runs from July 19 till 28 this year.

“The BCF arch will have a mini stage (at the back of the arch) for each ethnic group to display or showcase their activities or for hands- on events such as old folk’s games, traditional costumes, and traditional musical instruments,” Rogayah said.

She noted that the arch was one of the attractions at BCF 2017 where it was a favourite phototaking spot with visitors.

Another distinctive feature at this year’s BCF is the ‘ Tibau’ (swing), which was also one of the crowd-pullers last year.

“Apart from that, there will be a pavilion each for MalayMelanau, Chinese and Dayak to showcase their unique cultures and traditions,” she pointed out.

The official launching of BCF is July 20 at a site facing the arch.

It was reported that last year’s BCF from July 20 to 29, attracted some 600,000 visitors – more than 2016’s figure of over 500,000.

File photo shows Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah tries out the ‘Itut’ (swing) after the launching of BCF 2017.

File photo shows (from eighth left) SMC chairman Datuk Tiong Thai King and Rogayah with others at the BCF 2017 gateway arch.