Saturday, July 18, 2009

Borneo Cultural Festival - A showcase of culture

THE splendid cultural showcase in Borneo has come to a close after eight continuous days of songs and dances by individuals and cultural troupes representing the many different races in the east Malaysian state of Sarawak.

In addition, a six-man musical troupe from Malacca, the internationally famed Mohram and a Maori dance troupe from New Zealand were also invited to perform during the closing night. A record breaking 50,000 people attended the grand finale.

Despite the threat of the influenza A(H1N1) and the sluggish economy, the week-long 8th Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF) attracted some 150,000 spectators. The free event was held at the town’s 11ha Sibu Town Square. Each night, thousands of Sibu folk and people from surrounding towns flocked to the town square to see the cultural performances, art and photography exhibitions, listen to ethnic music, try myriad types of food, participate in traditional games or just chat with others there.

It was truly a colourful celebration of all the different races.

Themed “Beauty in Ethnic Diversity”, the BCF has been organised annually by the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) since 2002. It aims to promote racial harmony and unity and at the same time highlight Sibu’s hospitality. It is also a continuous effort by SMC to promote tourism, particularly in the central Sarawak region.

Continue reading (incl. pics) at: Borneo Cultural Festival - A showcase of culture

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