PADAWAN: Youths have been urged to continue preserving the cultural heritage of the Bidayuh community, which is not only a symbol of tradition but also reflects the community’s values, unity and identity.

Deputy Minister of Transport Datuk Dr Jerip Susil said cultural heritage such as traditional customs, thanksgiving practices following the harvest season, as well as traditional games, gong performances and cultural dances, form an important part of the community’s identity that must be continuously safeguarded.

“In this regard, the involvement of youths in cultural activities is crucial to ensure the continuity of these traditions, especially in a modern era increasingly influenced by changing lifestyles,” he said.

He said this while speaking at the Kampung Emperoh Karu Pre-Gawai Celebration here on Friday.

He added that efforts to strengthen cultural preservation would also be enhanced through the organisation of cultural competitions, including traditional dance, traditional costume and gong-playing contests, which also have the potential to be promoted as cultural tourism products.

Meanwhile, Datuk Dr Jerip, who is also the Mambong Assemblyman, revealed that a new multipurpose hall at the RGC Bayur site is currently under construction and is expected to become the main venue for large-scale Gawai celebrations capable of accommodating more than 1,000 people.

Also present was Officer-in-Charge of the Padawan Sub-District Office, Julius Scott Sapong. -UKASnews

Translator: Uilson Ng