Riverine photography contest captures essence of Sarawak’s rich heritage

SIBU: The Sarawak Riverine Photography Contest 2023 has been an extraordinary journey, bringing together 134 enthusiastic participants from various parts of Malaysia.

Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng Jin Ek noted that it was particularly heartening to observe a significant portion of these participants proudly hailing from Sarawak, showcasing their deep affection for the state through the lens of their cameras.

“Together, they contributed an impressive total of 1,450 photographs, each capturing a distinctive perspective on the vitality and life along our cherished rivers.

The submitted photographs reflect not only artistic skill but also a shared appreciation for the cultural, environmental, and historical significance of our rivers.

“Through the lens of these talented individuals, we witness the stories of our communities, the beauty of our landscapes, and the importance of preserving our natural heritage,” he said at the contest’s prize-giving ceremony held at RH Hotel here on Friday (Dec 29).

The one-month-long contest, which kicked off on Nov 8, was organised by The Photographic Society of Sibu Sarawak (PSS), sponsored by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP). It was divided into five categories, namely Culture, Adventure, Nature, Food, and Festival.

The cash prize for each category is RM3,000 (first prize), RM2,000 (second prize), RM1,000 (third prize), and 10 consolation prizes with RM200 each.

Chieng stressed that Sarawak, with its rich cultural diversity and breathtaking landscapes, has always been a source of inspiration for artists and photographers alike.

The contest, he said, stands as a testament to the profound connection between the people and the rivers that flow through the land.

“As we honour and recognise the winners today, let us also take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication of all participants. Their commitment to capturing the essence of Sarawak’s rivers has added a new dimension to our understanding of the vital role these waterways play in shaping our identity.

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the MTCP, as well as PSS, for organising this meaningful event. Your efforts have not only provided a platform for artistic expression but have also strengthened the bonds within our creative community.”

Congratulating the winners for their well-deserved recognition, Chieng hoped their photographs would continue to inspire others to appreciate and preserve the beauty of Sarawak’s rivers for generations to come. PSS president Peter Lee Pui Weng was also present.

Meanwhile, the contest witnessed Ling Sie Huong taking the first prize for the Culture category, with Leong Heng Tak for the second prize and Hii Yii Kuong for the third prize.

The 10 consolation winners were Foo Tai Ling, Noralina Abdullah@ Song Ai Ling, Tiong Chung Tiing, Ting Pang Sing, Tan Kin Khian, Phebe Ling Mee Yu, Mohmad Nahari Naha, Hu Toh Kai, Ng Wei Chean, and Ho Kok Boon.

In the Adventure category, Mak Sen Fatt was first, followed by Priscilla Simba Daniel Ngilek, second, and Koh Ung Leong, third.

The 10 consolation winners were John Lai Teck Kee, Ting Pang Sing, Tiong Chung Tiing, Tan Kin Khian, Mohmad Nahari Naha, Chang Kuan Chiang, Chew Chun Hian, Edwin Ong Wee Kee, Peter Bong Hon Chiong, and Wong Tze Kim.

For the Nature category, John Lai Teck Kee came first, Kelvin Pudun Dennis second, and Betty Lau Bik Hwang third.

The 10 consolation prizes went to Mak Sen Fatt, Tiong Chung Tiing, Hashim Mahrin, Chew Chun Hian, Edwin Ong Wee Kee, Desmond Ngu Chien Yew, Chai Nyong Sen, Raemy Sakai, Kerya Ravin Steven, and Tong Teck Ping.

In the Food category, the first prize was won by Foo Tai Ling, Noralina Abdullah@ Song Ai Ling second, and Ling Sie Houng third.

Hii Yii Kuong, Mak Sen Fatt, Kelvin Pudun Dennis, Tiong Chung Tiing, Chew Chun Hian, Desmond Ngu Chien Yew, Zulazhar@June Sheblee, Amir Rosli, Ling Leh Ping, and Lu Yew Yee were named as the 10 consolation winners.

The Festival category’s first prize was won by Tiong Chung Tiing, Hashim Mahrin second, and Kelvin Pudun Dennis third.

Ten consolation winners were Ling Sie Houng, Leong Hieng Tak, Joh Lai Teck Kee, Mohmad Nahari Naha, Hu Toh Kai, Ho Kok Boon, Desmond Ngu Chien Yew, Zulazhar@June Sheblee, Loh Kiun Sin, and Chiam Tak Chee.