Sarawak Kenyah Culture Festival 2025 kicks off with longest Saga’ performance MBOR attempt
by Jacqueline Raphael · Borneo Post OnlineMIRI (Dec 17): The 6th Sarawak Kenyah Culture Festival (SKCF) 2025 kicked off on today with a bid to enter the Malaysia Book of Records for the Longest Non-Stop Traditional Saga’ Performance.
State Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts II, Datuk Snowdan Lawan when officiating the festival, hailed it as a milestone for the Kenyah community and a platform to showcase Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage.
“It is a great honour to be part of this historic event, which not only preserves our traditions but also brings them to national and international attention,” he said.
The four-day festival, organised by the Sarawak Kenyah National Association (PKKS), features cultural performances, handicrafts, traditional music competitions, and interactive programmes aimed at promoting Kenyah heritage while creating economic opportunities for local communities.
Highlighting the record-breaking attempt, Snowdan congratulated the participants for their dedication and perseverance.
“This year, SKCF will enter the Malaysia Book of Records with the Longest Non-Stop Traditional Saga’ Performance, lasting 24 hours.
“I hope all participants remain enthusiastic and committed, as they are making history for Sarawak,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of youth involvement in safeguarding cultural heritage.
“Exposing young people to traditional arts early ensures that our roots and identity are not forgotten. Culture is not only our heritage but also an opportunity for the future,” he added.
Snowdan revealed that the Sarawak government, through the Ministry of Tourism, had approved grant allocations to support the festival.
He urged organisers and participants to leverage such support to create sustainable benefits for the community, from employment and business opportunities to tourism initiatives.
Snowdan also announced a RM20,000 allocation for PKKS in support of their objective to promote and preserve their culture.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Murum assemblyman and PKKS Advisor Kennedy Chukpai Ugon as well as PKKS president, Councillor Romulus Charles Agan.
The festival taking place at Federation of Orang Ulu Associations of Sarawak, Malaysia (FORUM) Cultural Building aims to cement SKCF as a signature tourism product in Sarawak, attracting visitors from across Malaysia and beyond, while ensuring that Kenyah culture continues to thrive for generations to come.