Kanowit Festival continues to recognise, preserve heritage, says unity minister

KANOWIT (Sept 20): The Kanowit Festival 2024 continues to recognise and preserve local culture and heritage, serving as a cornerstone of Sarawak’s identity, said National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang.

He emphasised the importance of celebrating the history and traditions of the various ethnic groups in Sarawak.

“The Kanowit Festival not only commemorates heritage but also strengthens unity and peace by recognising the cultural contributions that shape the identity of the people of Sarawak,” he said.

Aaron said this in his speech at the festival today, which also marked the official launch of the Kanowit Waterfront.

This year’s Kanowit Festival, he added, features a variety of exciting activities such as the Kanowit Remote-Control Boat Challenge, a fun fair and a trade fair, the Kanowit Power Boat Race, and the Kanowit Festival Queen pageant.

Among the key attractions for the three-day event, which concludes on Sept 22, are a Rahmah sales programme and a ‘miring’ (traditional ritual meant to seek good fortune and blessings) ceremony.

Additionally, Aaron said that the festival aligns with the ‘Ini Warisan Kita’ (This Is Our Heritage) initiative introduced by his ministry as the main content of its flagship programme, ‘Kembara Perpaduan Malaysia Madani’ (Malaysia Madani Unity Journey).

“This initiative aims to foster a love for the country by appreciating the rich cultural heritage that has been passed down,” he said.

Speaking on the Kanowit Waterfront, Aaron said the RM5.3 million project was completed in April last year.

“This location is expected to become a hub for tourism, recreation, and socio-economic activities in Kanowit,” he said.

Among those present were Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Ngemah assemblyman Anyi Jana, and Machan assemblyman Allan Siden Gramong.