Inaugural dabai fest brings life to quiet riverine town

KAPIT: The usually quiet town of Song was abuzz with activities as locals and visitors congregated to take part in the three- day Song Dabai Fest which ended Sunday.

Organised by Kapit District Council ( KDC) in collaboration with government agencies in Song, the inaugural fest was officiated at by Katibas assemblyman Datuk Ambrose Blikau.

The first day featured a dabai ( local olive) exhibition, cultural presentation, concert, and a performance by Kelab Gagung Sarawak members, followed by ‘ Best Dabai’ competition, cooking competition and other games, fun run, talent competition, colouring contest, and mini powerboat competition on the second and third days.

The Best Dabai competition was won by Lagi Jakong from Sungai Song, followed by Nyalut Saman and Echa Sabang in second and third respectively.

For the cooking competition featuring dabai- based recipes, the winner was Bandong @ Minah Baru from Nanga Entawai, with Dorina Saoh and Serepah Guntor in second and third respectively.

KDC secretary Jabang Juntan and Councillor Michael Nyantaw presented the prizes to the winners.

The main attraction and crowd puller was the mini powerboat competition – organised by Kapit Division Powerboat Association ( Kadpa) – which featured teams from Sibu, Sebauh, Kanowit, Kapit, Song and other areas.

Held on the final day of the fest, it was divided into four categories, namely 50hp and Below Tunnel Boat, 30hp and Below Tunnel Boat, 18hp and Below Tunnel Boat, and 35hp and Below Two Piston.

Among those present during the fest were KDC Walikota Dato Philimon Nuing and political secretary to the chief minister Tapah Ata.