Mohammed Abdullah Izkandar (left) presents a souvenir to Ting at the conclusion of tonight’s event.
SIBU (July 11) : The Cultural Night of the Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF) 2025 was more than a showcase of traditional performances and colourful costumes – it highlighted Sibu’s growing stature as a cultural hub for the Borneo region, said State Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang.
In a speech read by Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) chairman Clarence Ting, Tiang described the festival as a platform that strengthens cultural resilience and unites communities across borders.
“Sibu is more than the gateway to Central Sarawak. It is the cultural heartbeat of Borneo,” he said during BCF 2025 Cultural Night tonight.
The evening featured a vibrant programme of traditional music, dance, and crafts, with performances by cultural troupes from across Sarawak and international guests from West Java, Indonesia.
The presence of foreign delegations was seen as a sign of Sibu’s rising prominence in regional cultural diplomacy.
“Tonight, we are not only witnessing performances. We are witnessing stories of identity, resilience and beauty expressions that connect generations and communities.
“Culture is not a luxury. It is our legacy,” Ting said.
He urged Sarawakians to view culture as a living heritage that must be preserved and passed down, especially amid globalisation and rapid digital change.
“Let this festival be more than a celebration. Let it be a call to action, a shared commitment to ensure our cultural heritage remains part of our future, not just our past,” Ting added.
The night’s performances reflected Sarawak’s rich ethnic diversity, including Iban, Bidayuh, Orang Ulu, Malay, Melanau, and Chinese traditions.
Participation from Indonesian groups added a spirit of cross-cultural appreciation.
Also present were Lanang MP Alice Lau, SMC Deputy Chairman Mohammed Abdullah Izkandar Roseley, Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak Joshua Ting, Acting Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia Musa Derek Sairwona, Sibu District Police Chief ACP Zulkipli Suhaili, Deputy Organising Chairman Cr Michelle Law, and other invited guests.
The Borneo Cultural Festival continues through the weekend, featuring themed nights dedicated to various ethnic groups, culinary showcases, and cultural exhibitions.
