Kapit MP: Peninsular M’sians performing ngajat, Iban youth dancing joget reflect M’sia’s strong unity

Nanta greeting guests upon his arrival at the fourth Kapit Cultural Festival on May 17, 2026. Photo: Alexander Nanta Linggi/Facebook

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, May 18: The sight of cultural dancers from Peninsular Malaysia attempting to perform the traditional ngajat dance—an identity of the Land of the Hornbills—has become a powerful symbol of Malaysia’s growing cultural appreciation and unity.

According to Kapit MP Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, he also sees Iban youth in Sarawak, especially in Kapit, attempt not only the Malay joget dance, but are also talented in lion dances, often seen among the Chinese community.

“That is the uniqueness of our country—all communities, regardless of ethnic and cultural differences, uplift and support each other’s cultures, further strengthening our unity,” he said in a Facebook post after attending the fourth edition of the Kapit Cultural Festival (KCF) on Sunday (May 17).

Nanta, who is also the Works Minister, said that Kapit itself is increasingly becoming a destination for foreign tourists who want to witness firsthand the cultural diversity here, which remains deeply rooted and strongly preserved among its people.

He praised the organisation of the KCF as timely, as it further highlights Kapit’s colourful cultural diversity here, and reflects the uniqueness and identity of the people of Kapit.

Touching on the programme, which runs from May 17-24, he said that it is not just an annual event, but also a platform to preserve customs and culture so that they continue to be appreciated by the younger generation.

“I would also like to congratulate Thomas Geoffrey Kandawang, chairman of the organising committee of the KCF and Kapit District Officer, as well as the entire organising committee, for their commitment to making this festival a success, one that not only elevates local cultural heritage but also continues to strengthen the spirit of unity among the people of Kapit.

“May this festival continue to serve as a platform for appreciating cultural heritage and strengthening ties between generations,” he said. — DayakDaily