MUKAH: The traditional Melanau ceremony, Kaul Serahang Kakan, was celebrated with great vibrancy on Saturday, with local leaders and members of the community gathering in large numbers for the annual ritual.
Among those in attendance were the Deputy Minister of Health and Member of Parliament for Mukah, Dato Hanifah Hajar Taib, Balingian Assemblyman Abdul Yakub Arbi, and Tellian Assemblyman Royston Valentine.
As early as 7:00 am, villagers began assembling at the jetty before boarding boats to travel along the Tellian River toward the Tugek Kaul Site to participate in the ceremony.
The journey, spanning over two kilometres, was accompanied by the rhythms of traditional Melanau music, highlighting the unique cultural heritage and enlivening the atmosphere en route to the ritual site.
Upon arrival, the ceremony was led by the Bapa Kaul, Edmund Salman Tuna, who acts as the intermediary between the community in the physical world and the ‘Ipok’ in the spiritual realm.
Before the main ritual commenced, visitors were treated to traditional Melanau dance performances followed by a silat demonstration, reflecting the distinctiveness of the local cultural legacy.
Furthermore, attendees enjoyed a feast provided as a token of thanksgiving in conjunction with this year’s Kaul celebrations.
During the event, the three leaders presented prizes to the winners of the Decorated Boat competition held for Kaul Serahang Kakan 2026.
The decorated boat belonging to Sapan Puloh was crowned champion, with the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) of Tellian Tradisi taking second place, while JKKK Tellian Ulu secured third.
In the small boat category, Alex Minan emerged as the winner, followed by Anak Nani @ Budug in second place and Clement Tani in third.
A total of 20 boats, across both small and large categories, participated in the procession along the Tellian River as one of the highlights of the festivities.
This ceremony, steeped in heritage and cultural values, remains a symbol of identity and pride for the Melanau community in Mukah, while also serving as a medium to strengthen local community unity.-UKASnews
