Laos diplomat, family learn more about Hakka Chinese in Bau during district tour
KUCHING: The recent tour in Bau and its surrounding areas was a culturally- enriching experience for Laos Ambassador to Malaysia, Houmdaophone Soukhaseum and his family.
The outing gave the Laotian visitors more insights and history about the Hakka Chinese community in Bau, and also the district’s tourism potential.
The programme was arranged by the Malaysian Hakka Cultural Society Sarawak branch chairman Michael Leong , who also brought Houmdaophone and his entourage to meet Bau Chinese Miners Historical Heritage and Cultural Society president Pemanca Bong Jong Long and local Chinese community leader Penghulu Liew Chiew Hian.
During this meet, they discussed about culture and customs of the local Hakkas, as well as the historical roots of this Chinese clan in Sarawak, particularly Bau.
The visitors also went to Tasik Biru and later, visited to a temple associated with the Hakkas in Bau.
Houmdaophone and his group also went to Liu Shanbang Monument at Pangkalan Tebang, which was erected in honour of local Hakka leader, Liu Shan Bang.
Tasik Biru assemblyman Dato Henry Harry Jinep also hosted a dinner reception for the Laotian delegates at his residence, where he briefed his guests on the development taking place in Bau District, including tourism.
In his remarks, Houmdaophone said he was deeply touched by the hospitality of the locals, and also commended the Sarawak Hakkas for preserving their culture and heritage.
He also informed his hosts that the visit to Bau coincided with the New Year celebration in his homeland.
“My family and I will always remember this visit,” he said.
After the dinner, the visitors were brought to visit the famous Siniawan Night Market.