Deputy minister calls for preservation of Kayan culture through Do Ledoh Festival, other platforms

Liwan (7th left) in a photo call with others at the opening ceremony of the Belaga District Do Ledoh Festival 2024 at Uma Kahei, Long Mekero, Belaga on July 5, 2024. Photo credit: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

BELAGA, July 7: Kayan culture and traditions must be preserved through various local activities, including festivals like the Do Ledoh Festival 2024, says Sarawak Deputy Minister for Utility and Telecommunication (Telecommunication) Datuk Liwan Lagang.

According to a report by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas), he emphasised the importance of such festivals for community bonding and for younger generations to learn about Kayan customs and culture.

“This festival benefits the community by promoting mutual help and cooperation among the Belaga community, regardless of ethnicity or religion, and by acknowledging other community festivals,” he said during the opening ceremony of the Belaga District Do Ledoh Festival 2024 at Uma Kahei, Long Mekero, Belaga on July 5.

The Do Ledoh Festival is celebrated by the Kayan ethnic group after the paddy harvesting season as a sign of gratitude.

The festival, held from July 5 to 6, was organised by the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) Uma Kahei in collaboration with the Belaga District Office.

The event featured various activities, including traditional sports, dance competitions, traditional attire contests, exhibitions, and a showcase on paddy cultivation.

Also present were Liwan’s wife, Datin Rosnie Bilang; political secretary to the Premier of Sarawak, Thomas Balan Bang; Acting Belaga district officer Bidah Lujah; Bakun HEP Station Manager Encharang; and Uma Kahei tuai rumah Tijan Hendrick Hang. — DayakDaily