Statos photo exhibition raises funds to upgrade longhouse in Lubok Antu

KUCHING (Sept 6): A photo exhibition spearheaded by the Sarawak Trade and Tourism Office Singapore (Statos) has managed to raise funds for the facility upgrading of Rumah Sambon in Nanga Kesit, Lubok Antu.

Statos in a statement said the exhibition ran from Jan 15 to March 31 this year at the Statos Gallery in Singapore.

Held in collaboration with three renowned Singaporean photographers namely Julian W, Jennice Ong and Guek Peng Siong, the exhibition featured breathtaking scenery and dynamic culture of Sarawak and was open to the public.

Four special photography talk sessions were also held during the exhibition, where the partnering photographers shared the beauty of Sarawak and their unique experiences in capturing its essence.

The sessions were aimed towards promoting Sarawak tourism and engaging the audience with the enchanting stories behind each photograph.

The exhibition allowed the public to view and purchase the photographs, while at the same time contributing to Statos’ community support initiative.

All of the proceeds from the exhibition, said the statement, went towards Statos’s philanthropic goal to enhance the ‘ruai’ (shared hall) of Rumah Sambon – a traditional 27-door Iban longhouse, located deep in the rural area of Lubok Antu, some 240 kilometres from here.

“Originally known as Rumah Jampang, it was renamed in honour of its current chief, Sambon Jampang, a woman of remarkable strength and wisdom who continues her father’s legacy.

“Although the longhouse has embraced modern amenities like treated water and electricity, there is an ongoing need for improvement,” said the statement.

Adding on, it said the funds raised from the exhibition would be utilised for the purchase and installation of 27 wall fans for the longhouse’s ruai.

In this regard, Statos would like to extend its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who purchased the photographs during the exhibition and supported this initiative.

“Special thanks also go to Ms Aw and her husband for their generous contributions which went a long way towards realising the noble cause.

“Statos remains committed to its vision to promote Sarawak tourism and support community development through innovative and impactful initiatives,” it said.