EMBRACE THE ENCHANTMENT OF BORNEO
4 min read
It is worth mentioning that Borneo, which is ranked as the third-largest island globally, is home to a wide range of cultures and traditions. In Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak, located in the northern part of the island, serve as prime examples of this cultural blend. These two states are well-known for their unprecedented diversity that is unparalleled throughout the country. Sabah, known as the “Land Below the Wind,” is a kaleidoscope of cultures. Here, you will discover the vibrant traditions of indigenous groups such as the Kadazan-Dusun, Murut, Rungus, and Bajau, each with their distinct rituals, music, and dances. Its natural beauty is awe-inspiring, from the majestic Mount Kinabalu to the pristine islands of Sipadan and Mabul. While Sarawak is often called the “Land of Hornbills,” it is a realm of unparalleled cultural diversity. Home to indigenous communities like the Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu, Sarawak boasts a wealth of unique traditions. Sarawak’s lush rainforests, extensive cave systems, and iconic longhouses add to its allure.
Malaysia Fashion, Modeling, and Pageant Association (MFMPA) jointly organised with members of MFMPA, with the support of Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture Malaysia, Subang Parade Shopping Mall, PARKROYAL Collection Kuala Lumpur, GOGO Puteri and Rapid Borneo Freight & Shipping Inc., are proud to announce the much-anticipated Borneo Culture Festival 2023 (BCF 2023). BCF 2023 is a two-day extravaganza that promises to be a vibrant celebration of the diverse cultures, arts, and traditions of Sabah and Sarawak. This cultural festival will showcase Borneo’s unique heritage, captivating attendees through various activities and experiences.
This event has three main goals, namely to use elements of culture and art as a way for Malaysians to interact more widely, offer a glimpse of the culture and heritage of the Borneo community for the community in the Peninsula, and to safeguard cultural values so that generations of the future will not forget their culture. This festival promises a variety of exciting events, including the Cultural Exhibition, which is an exhibition of traditional clothes, traditional equipment, traditional handicrafts, and photos of Borneo’s ethnic history. At the upcoming festival, visitors will have the chance to try on traditional clothing and take pictures. They can also enjoy mesmerizing music and dance performances from various Sabah & Sarawak ethnic groups. Guests are welcome to join in on the music-making and dancing.
Additionally, the festival offers an array of traditional Borneo dishes and exotic food competitions like butot caterpillars, bambangan, tarap fruit, and sea grapes. There will be an intriguing quiz competition for those looking to test their knowledge about Borneo. The festival also provides special booths for tour service providers from Sabah and Sarawak to showcase their services and packages to the public, especially foreign tourists. Apart from that, visitors can also indulge in a preview of Selangor Fashion Week: Borneo Edition Preview where the winners of the Unduk Ngadau Kaamtan 2023, Miss Merdeka 2022, Miss Kebaya Malaysia, Miss Chipao and Miss Saree will be showcasing the Borneo Ethnic Inspired Couture Dress and the latest fashion trends.
Dr. Jason Hee, organizer for the BCF 2023 and as the President of the Malaysian Fashion, Modeling and Pageant Association (MFMPA), has expressed his deep commitment to this cultural extravaganza, “I hereby wish to state that such a festival serves as an invaluable platform to bring together the cultural gap between Sabah and Sarawak and the people in Peninsular Malaysia. I emphasize the potential of this festival as a step to foster a deep sense of unity and understanding among Malaysians while preserving Borneo’s cultural heritage for future generations.” His insightful comments underlined the festival’s importance as a catalyst for the appreciation of the culture and traditions of the Borneo community.
“Promoting Sabah and Sarawak is vital for cultural preservation, economic growth, and tourism development. The Malaysian Borneo region offer rich biodiversity, diverse traditions, and unique opportunities for sustainable prosperity. As a Sabahan who has been living away from home myself most of time, it has been my passion and one of my life goal to preserve, promote and share the rich culture and heritage of Borneo Natives,” Miss Junzuenn Basalan, the organizing chairperson of BCF 2023 and Sodop Unduk Ngadau Kaamatan Sabah Charity Gala 2023.
On 11th October 2023, a press conference will be held at PARKROYAL Collection KL to share important information and goals about the upcoming Borneo Culture Festival 2023 (BCF 2023). The event organizers and partners will be present to provide insight and answer any questions from attendees.
Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri Panglima Dr. Jeffrey G. Kitingan, the Deputy Chief Minister | of Sabah and State Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food Industry of Sabah, will be the guests of honour at the Borneo Culture Festival 2023 (BCF 2023)on 28 October 2023. BCF 2023 will take place on 28th and 29″ October 2023, from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM at the Subang Parade Shopping Centre.
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