Borneo Cultural Festival ‘the soul’ of Sibu, says Deputy Premier

SIBU (Aug 10): The Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF), which showcases rich cultural performances, handicrafts and food, signifies the soul of Sibu’s community, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

He pointed out this clearly resonated with the inclusivity pillar outlined in Sarawak’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.

“This cultural festival — the cultural performances, handicrafts and food festival — is the soul of Sibu. Just like Kuching Festival is the soul of Kuching.

“This means the soul of the people; the community of Sibu. It is also a reflection of what our Premier is talking about in PCDS 2030 — inclusivity. All races, all of us coming together, that is truly walking the talk of inclusivity,” he said when officiating the opening of BCF 2024 at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phase 1 here on Friday night.

He noted that BCF is one of the highlights of the year for Sibu, as it not only showcases the rich cultural heritage of the various ethnic groups in Sarawak but is also joined by international communities.

Dr Sim also talked about Sarawak’s uniqueness, where people from all walks of life come together and mingle regardless of their background.

“This is Sarawak — the Chinese, Malay and Dayak all come together and I want to thank Sibu for really walking the talk, standing tall and showing the rest of Malaysia what Sarawak is about,” he said.

Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) chairman Clarence Ting said Sibu celebrated another milestone with BCF entering its 20th edition.

At this juncture, he extended his heartfelt gratitude to the late Datuk Robert Lau who started this event, which was known then as ‘Pesta Sibu’.

He recalled more items were added into the event due to the overwhelming response, and this celebration continued under former SMC chairman Datuk Tiong Thai King.

“Now, it is our turn to take over and make it even better for Sibu. As we know, BCF is the most important cultural event in Sibu and as we gather here today, we are reminded of the beautiful tapestry of racial diversity and harmony that defines our beloved Sibu,” he said.

Among those present were Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng, Sibu MP Oscar Ling and political secretary to the Sarawak Premier Joshua Ting, representing Dudong assemblyman Dato Sri Tiong King Sing.