Alena shares Kelabit heritage via workshop

SANTUBONG: Sarawak-born Sape star, Alena Murang, enlivened the atmosphere at the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) by holding a workshop titled ‘Alena Murang Kelabit Call & Response Chants’.

The 35-year-old winner of the Best Styling Award at the 2020 Buenos Aires Music Video Festival (BAMVFEST20) expressed her joy at having the opportunity to share the cultural customs and unique music of the Kelabit people in the state.

“I think it (the workshop) is very good, a combination of Sarawakians and non-Sarawakians, and I feel this is something unique for the Kelabit people and their response to the chants.

“Honestly, I did not expect this to be exhausting as well,” she said when met here today.

She further expressed hopes that the workshop will provide a valuable experience for visitors to feel the atmosphere and cultural customs of the longhouse.

“As we all know, singing in the longhouse and dancing together is a meaningful thing for the community.

“Everyone can join. So, I hope everyone will take the opportunity during the 30-minute programme,” she added.

Meanwhile, sharing about her success in obtaining Sarawak citizenship, Alena expressed that she now feels safer and more secure being in her birthplace.

“After obtaining native status, I feel safer and more secure because I know that I can inherit my ancestors’ heritage.

“Like before, it was somewhat uncertain about who I was, I was always indigenous and always aware that I was indigenous.

“So, I think the most important thing is just having that security and validation,” she said.