(From third left) Ling, Chieng, Dr Sim, Ting and other councillors declaring open BCF 2024.
THE Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF), which has seen improvement each year, has become a signature product for Sibu.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian said the festival not only brought together local cultures such as Chinese, Dayak and Malay but also attracted international communities from all over Malaysia and other Asian countries including China.
“During BCF, we come together to showcase what Sibu has to offer. This includes unity among the different races.
“This reflects the true spirit of not only Sibu but also Sarawak.
“It serves as a platform to showcase our best and richest heritage,” he said at the opening of BCF 2024.
Dr Sim said BCF’s official mascot − the clouded leopard or Neofelis diardi borneensis, known as engkulik by the Dayak community − represented a commitment to sustainable development.
He said the mascot was chosen as proof that Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) and locals cared for the environment, and wanted to ensure the animal was protected.
The Sarawak Public Health, Housing and Local Government Minister also praised BCF’s Centre for Arts, Culture and Exhibitions (ACE).
“I had the opportunity to see the handicrafts at ACE, and indeed every year the quality seems to improve.
The ‘tibow’ waiting for those who dare, at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phase I in Sibu town.
“I would like to congratulate artisans for their perseverance and commend all involved for never giving up, because the quality has great commercial potential,” he added.
Among those present were Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng, Sibu MP Oscar Ling and SMC chairman Clarence Ting.
Ting said good road network connectivity in the central region, including the Pan Borneo Highway and many new roads, had contributed to the growing popularity of BCF.
“Road connectivity in the central region over the years has enabled visitor to come to this event,” he said.
“We can see many people are coming to BCF and we hope they will continue supporting it.”
Ting also announced that BCF 2025 will be held in July.
Meanwhile, the 15m high itut or “tibow” was a crowd-puller.
The traditional game of dare and athleticism – where people leap from the bamboo scaffold to catch a swinging rope – was set up by Kampung Nangka Melanau Welfare Association to introduce its unique culture to visitors.
Association chairman Abang Carrol Abang Dris, who is also a Sibu councillor, said the local council had installed necessary measures to ensure visitors could try the game safely.
However, he added: “Those with height phobia or history of high blood pressure are advised against trying out the itut.”
Themed “Borneo Mysticism”, the 10-day BCF showcased three traditional stages – the Chinese, Malay/Melanau and Dayak.
