Integration Of Melanau Culture Strengthened Through Pesta Besaug Dalat 2025
DALAT: Pesta Besaug Dalat 2025 once again stood out as an important platform in strengthening Melanau cultural identity and integration, as a variety of traditional and modern activities successfully brought the local community together in a spirit of unity and festivity.
Sarawak Minister for Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development, Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, said this year’s edition reflected the enduring strength of Dalat’s cultural heritage, preserved through the active involvement of all levels of society.
She also commended the dedication of the organising committee, who worked tirelessly from the planning stage through to implementation, covering logistics, safety, and participant management.
“The success of this festival, which has been running since 22 November, is the result of the commitment and close cooperation of the organising committee, government agencies, NGOs, the private sector, community leaders (KMKK), and the local community in ensuring that each programme runs smoothly while contributing meaningfully to efforts to uphold local culture,” she said.
Her remarks were delivered by Dalat District Officer, Matthew Hubert, during the closing ceremony of Pesta Besaug 2025 at the Dalat Waterfront on Saturday.
Dato Sri Fatimah, who is also Dalat Assemblywoman, expressed hope that the spirit of cooperation and unity displayed throughout the festival will continue and serve as an example for future editions.
Pesta Besaug Dalat 2025 featured a range of activities highlighting Melanau heritage, including Melanau dance workshops, bermukun performances, and the highly anticipated annual Bidar Boat Race.
Beyond arts and tradition, the festival also provided participation opportunities for children and youth through colouring contests, the Putera & Puteri Besaug competition, e-sports activities, and entrepreneurship courses, fostering early appreciation for culture and community engagement.
Local entrepreneurs also benefited through sales booths and the Puyan Dalat programme, which helped stimulate the local economy during the festival.
Overall, Pesta Besaug continued to serve as a cultural bridge, uniting the younger and older generations in understanding, appreciating, and preserving the identity of the Melanau community. -UKASnews
