‘Ajat indu’, ‘kuntau’ classes attract 24 participants

SIBU: Twenty- four people have enrolled into ‘ajat indu’ ( Iban woman dance) and ‘ kuntau’ (martial arts) classes, organised by Sarawak Dayak Iban Academy (Asadia) in Kuching.

Asadia head Mabong Unggang said response to the dance and ‘ kuntau’ classes were good from members of the public in Kuching.

This is especially so for ‘ajat indu’ class whereby 17 out of the 24 people have enrolled.

“The kuntau class will be conducted by Andi Debis, and assisted by his brother Kilau. They are former students of ‘ kuntau’ guru Patrick Tuat,” he said.

Mabong said Asadia would also conduct classes for sape and ‘ belikan’ (three stringed musical instrument), ‘ betaboh’ ( percussion), ‘gendang pampat’ (drum), ‘marik empang’ ( beaded collar) and beadwork, as well as making of ‘ tumpa’ and ‘ rangki’ (women brass-wear) other than ‘kuntau’ and ‘ajat indu’ classes.

Asadia also has plans to conduct Iban arts and culture competition and gathering on May 4 to coincide with the launch of ‘ belikan’ class.

“Tables are sold at RM400 each.Our students will perform ‘ belikan’ music during the gathering, which is expected to be attended by Assistant Minister of Youth and Sports Datuk Snowdan Lawan,” he said.

Those interested to know more about classes organised by Asadia can contact Mabong at 012- 6925562.

Rohani (left) receives a memento from a representative of the organiser during the event.