Rep calls for music, dance fest to be made an annual event

MARUDI: A call has been made on making the ‘Sarawak Highland Folk Music and Dance Festival’ an annual event to attract more visitors to the Long Bedian Sub– District.

Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau noted that the third edition of the festival, which ran from Dec 9 to 11, managed to draw in an overwhelming number of participants representing various communities with their own culture and performing arts.

It is learned that the first edition was held in 2002, followed by another in 2009.

“This festival is not only a showcase of traditional performing arts of various communities in Sarawak, but it is also a platform for them to earn incomes through sales of their products such as handicraft items.

“During the recent festival, many visitors were enchanted by the beauty and uniqueness of traditional products such as the rattan mats and baskets, as well as ornaments. They bought them in bundles,” said Dennis, who was also the festival’s organising chairman.

Adding on, he encouraged the locals especially those from the Kayan, Kenyah and Penan communities to uphold and preserve their traditional craftsmanship.

Mulu assemblyman Dato Gerawat Gala represented Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg to officiate at the opening of the festival at Long Bedian Official on Dec 10.

(From right) Dennis accompanies Gerawat, who is interested in one of the rattan products on display.

Kayan women from Upper Baram show exquisite rattan baskets made by the Penans at one of the booths.

Lee (third left) presenting the school aid to one of the recipients, witnessed by others.