King Of Umai Competition Strengthens Traditional Heritage At Mukah Kaul
MUKAH: The Raja Umai competition, held in conjunction with Mukah Kaul, continues to serve as an essential platform for showcasing the unique traditional food of the local community, particularly umai.
A total of nine participants from across Mukah and Oya took part in the competition, which was organised by the Mukah/Oya Area Fishermen’s Association in collaboration with the Mukah District Office at the Mukah Kaul site on Thursday.
The prize presentation ceremony was officiated by the Deputy Minister of Health and Member of Parliament for Mukah Dato Hanifah Hajar Taib who witnessed the participants' enthusiasm and the local community's support for the preservation of traditional cuisine.
In the competition, Hisyamudin Padlam from Oya emerged as the champion, taking home RM500 in cash. Second place was won by Farizan Bolhasan Yap Bulhasan from Mukah (RM300), while third place went to Sebeli Mensalleh from Mukah (RM200).
Six other participants received a consolation prize of RM100 each.
Additionally, special awards were presented to recognise the participants' excellence in specific categories, Sebeli Mensalleh won for Taste and Quality, Hisyamudin Padlam for Creativity and Originality, Ahmad Fairul Hanzam Shah Abdullah for Food Presentation, and Farizan Bolhasan Yap Bulhasan for Hygiene Standards.
The competition not only highlighted the diverse methods of preparing umai but also reinforced efforts to preserve traditional food among the local community.
Also in attendance were the Balingian Assemblyman and Chairman of the Mukah Melanau Association Abdul Yakub Arbi, Chairman of the Mukah/Oya Area Fishermen’s Association Ali Hamid, and the association’s General Manager Abdul Mutalib Salman.-UKASnews
