Selangau Festival expected to profit local businesses

SIBU: Sibu Rural District Council chairman Sempurai Petrus Ngelai expects Selangau Festival which begins tomorrow and ends on May 14 will benefit the local business community while captivating Selangau folk and visitors.

“The festival is aimed at creating business and economic opportunities for the local people and the business community in Selangau,” he said.

“We are promoting Selangau as a potential tourist attraction,” he added.

Sempurai said he sees big potential in the ‘Selangau Tamu’ as an attraction for those looking for jungle produce and locally grown vegetables.

A raft competition will be the highlight of the gamut of activities, he added. The raft challenge is scheduled for May 14, with Rumah Linggi as the flag- off point for the competing rafts and Selangau bazaar as the finish point.

“Kayaking and a radiocontrolled boat race are two new water events that will also help promote Selangau Festival,” Sempurai said.

Other activities include a karaoke competition, Iban ‘pantun’, ‘ratu kebaya’ competition, and presentation of Malay, Chinese, Orang Ulu, Iban, Bidayuh and Melanau traditional costumes.

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office Datuk Joseph Entulu Belaun will declare open the festival on May 12 while Tamin assemblyman Christopher Gira Sambang will grace the closing on May 14.