KUCHING: Sarawak Deputy Minister for Tourism, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, said cultural events form an essential foundation for Sarawak’s cultural tourism, noting that the Tering community has demonstrated its commitment to preserving tradition and strengthening unity through this celebration.
Speaking at the launch of Ngelamaai Buraaq Idaang 2025 at Lutong Emart in Miri yesterday afternoon, he congratulated the Miri Tering Community Association for successfully organising the event, describing it as a cultural initiative of deep significance for both the Tering people and Sarawak.
He said Ngelamaai Buraaq Idaang is not just a cultural event but also a symbol of the Tering community’s love, pride, and unity in honouring their ancestral heritage. It highlights the unique beauty of their language, music, arts, and traditional values, and stands as an important part of Sarawak’s diverse cultural landscape.
He noted that the main celebration will take place on 5 December 2025 at Mulu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mulu, he said, not only showcases the natural beauty of Sarawak but also represents the harmony between culture, people, and nature, making it the ideal location to present Tering traditions and the Sarawak spirit to the world.
“We hope Sarawak tourism does not focus only on destinations, but also tells the stories, culture, and soul of the people. Every language, art form, and tradition is a part of Sarawak’s diverse identity,” he added.
He stressed that community driven festivals are vital for developing tourism that is rooted in people and culture, and said the Tourism Ministry fully supports such grassroots cultural initiatives.
Ting also expressed his appreciation to the organising committee, volunteers, and supporters for their efforts in making the launch a success. He said he hopes the event will become a platform for the younger generation of Tering youth to learn, embrace, and carry forward their heritage.
We will continue to support cultural and heritage efforts by all communities and bring Sarawak cultural tourism to a wider international stage, he said, before officially launching Ngelamaai Buraaq Idaang 2025.
He said he looks forward to the main celebration taking place in Mulu from December 5 to 7.
By Connie Chieng