Posted by Xander on August 21st, 2009 in Events, Festivals

AUGUST 8th 2009 – University Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu was chosen as the venue for Malaysia’s most prestigious and illustrious event which celebrates the accomplishments of the men and women of the local film industry; The 22nd Malaysian Film Festival(Festival Filem Malaysia Ke-22.) The aspirations of the Malaysian Film Festival is to commend the outstanding achievements of the film makers, actors, actresses and artists of the local film industry.

It is also to encourage these artistes to strive with more determination and passion in their outstanding profession that the local films would culminate into global recognition. This is the main reason for this years’ theme which is, ‘Filem Malaysia ke Persada Dunia’ or  ‘The Malaysian Film to the World ’. This inaugural event for Sabah was not only a significant juncture to Sabahans but also shows how distinguishably paramount it is in promoting this state to all Malaysians as well as our neighboring countries.

Attendees kept pouring in as early as 7.30 pm as more people rushed to the Chancellor Hall of UMS to have a glance at their favorite celebrities. The variegated collection of talented and charming artists present that night were Datuk Aziz Sattar, Afdlin Shauki, Jaclyn Victor, Liyana Jasmay, Mohd Nor Kassim, including the exquisitely stunning Amber Chia and Carmen Soo just to name a few among the many effervescent personalities.

Organized by FINAS & GAFIM among other societies of prominent film makers and producers, this auspicious occasion is supported by the Ministry of Information, Communication & Culture, Sabah State Government and the Kota Kinabalu City Hall. The grandeur of such an ostentatious occasion, the resplendence is made even more opulently exceptional as it was graced with the presence of the Tuan Yang Terutama Ahmad Shah, Chief Minister of Sabah Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Musa Aman, Minister of Tourism Culture and Environment,Yang Berbahagia Datuk Masidi Manjun and the mayor of Kota Kinabalu city Datuk Iliyas Ibrahim.

The stupendously marvelous opening performance to this luxurious awards ceremony was simply astounding as diverse musicians and dancers permeates the hall with convivial elation weaved into their exhibition of flair and panache and added to the jovial ambiance was the gorgeous Vanida Imran and charismatic Shahrin Ahmad as the main hosts for the night.

And the Award goes to. . .

Best Picture : Papadom

Best Director : Yasmin Ahmad for the picture Talentime.

Best Actor : Afdlin Shauki in ‘Papadom’.

Best Actress : Liyana Jasmay in ‘Papadom’.

Best Screenplay : Yasmin Ahmad for ‘Talentime’.

Best Original Story : Afdlin Shauki for ‘Papadom’.

Best Cinematography : Mohd Nor Kassim for ‘Setem’.

Best Comedy Picture : ‘Los dan Faun’.

Best Supporting Actor : Mohd Shafie Naswip from ‘Talentime’.

Best Supporting Actress : Salina Saibi from ‘Bohsia: Jangan Pilih Jalan Hitam’.

Best Child Actor : Mohd. Hadziq in ‘Syurga Cinta’.

Most Promising Actor : Zahiril Adzim in ‘KAMI The Movie’.

Most Promising Actress : Jaclyn Victor in ‘Talentime’.

Most Promising Director : James Lee for the picture ‘Histeria’.

Special Jury’s Award : Box Office Film for the movie ‘Geng:Pengembaraan Bermula’.

Best Director : Yasmin Ahmad for the picture Talentime which she received posthumously. Her younger sister accepted the award on behalf of Yasmin which gave a very moving speech that almost made her shed tears on the stage.

Best Picture : Papadom

Best Actor : Afdlin Shauki in ‘Papadom’, Best Original Story : Afdlin Shauki for ‘Papadom’.

Best Supporting Actress : Salina Saibi from ‘Bohsia: Jangan Pilih Jalan Hitam’.

A blend of an almost unprecedented attendance of diverse esteemed guests, acclaimed artists, fascinating celebrities and personalities which came for a momentous reception; it was expected to be an evening that would set it apart from other official functions that ever transpired in the Land Below the Wind.

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Posted by Xander on July 12th, 2009 in Culture & Traditions, Events

July 3rd-4th, Sabah Cultural Center  – The Sabah International Folklore Festival which began its history since 2001 and successfully staging two more of such a propitious event in 2004 and 2007. This year, the event was launched since the 1st of July this year and promises to feature the various folklore dances from all over the world.

Two competitions were held in conjunction with this festival, the Sabah Creative Dance Competition and the International Folklore Dance competition. Tickets for the local dance competition were priced at RM20 for 1st class, RM10 for normal and RM5 for children under the age of 17 years.

The evening started off as the audience was welcomed with a spectacle of pyrotechnics and an ensemble of young performers from all over Sabah. These youths are none other than the students from the many elementary schools and high schools from each districts within Sabah. They are also the participants for the Creative Dance Competition which is also part of this auspicious and splendorous of occasions.

Each district was represented by an elementary school or high school which will be competing for their respective titles. For these two nights the audience were enthralled by their glittering and dazzling performances.

The elementary schools that participated showed how charming and graceful these young performers were and they captivated the hearts of the crowd. One such school was from the Stella Maris Elementary school performing a dance from the Murut people.

St. Peter of Telipok performed this particular dance which has one of the most colorful attire and it is a dance derived from a traditional dance of the people of Bajau. Though this rendition of the dance was slightly modified but it stayed true to the occasion and it was indeed creative nonetheless.

One specific dance which was surprising to see that night was a performance by the Putatan High School. It is rarely seen outside of its district which hails mainly from the Kokos people of the Tawau district.

Some performances that night also included the choir from Saint Francis Convent high school, adorned in various costumes of different ethnicity and background of the world singing a classic local tune ‘Tinggi-2 Gunung Kinabalu’.

Winners of Elementary level school.

Announcing the winners – The Special Jury Award went to Labuan Federal Territory of S.K Pekan Satu. Kumpulan Harapan category was given to S.K. Tamparuli.

Best Male and Female dancer each received RM300.

Best Costume and Best Choreography – S.K Piawaian of Tambunan.

2nd runner-up was awarded to S.K Likas while 1st runner-up went to Stella Maris Elementary school. The 1st place was given to S.K Piawaian of Tambunan.

Winners of the High School categories.

Special Jury’s Award Anugrah khas juri – St.  Peter of Telipok.

Kumpulan Harapan category – Labuan Federal Territory.

Best Costume – Kota Belud.

Best choreography – Maktab Sabah, Kota Kinabalu.

2nd place -Putatan High School.

1^st place of this years creative dance competition high school level was won by Maktab Sabah High School

Don’t miss out on the coverage of the International Folklore Dance competition which was held on the 6th and 7th so stay tuned to lifeinborneo.com.

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Posted by Xander on May 29th, 2009 in Culture & Traditions, Events, Festivals

May 16^th 2009, Lintasan Deasoka, Kota Kinabalu – This city again celebrates the Kaamatan festival with its’ city-level Unduk Ngadau contest which is part of this prestigious and colorful state event. On its final day the throng of people that came to visit this auspicious occasion were substantially lower than the other days due to heavy downpour. Though it hardly deterred most of the patrons they stayed on till the end to show their support for their favorite contestants.

Organized by Kota Kinabalu city council and Celcom being the executive sponsor of this event, it already promises to be quite an auspicious affair along with Nestle and Air Asia; the prizes that awaits the contestants were certainly substantial and generous indeed. As covered on May 14^th, there are other categories in which the participants will also have a chance to win.

Among these categories are Best Costume and Creative Design Attire which will be chosen tonight by the selected judges invited especially for this event; and it is also up to them who makes it to the 2^nd Heat for that night and finally which one will represent Kota Kinabalu city in the state level Unduk Ngadau pageant.

Miss Popular would be determined from the number of flower bouquets they garnered from May 14^th and the same goes to the Tati Tavanus Celcom where they are voted through SMS votes from the public since the beginning of the carnival.

These are the line up of the contestants that night that made into the 1^st Heat of the competition:

No.1 – Ms. Richelle Audrey J. Jautin

N0.2 – Ms. Noemi Halima Dingle Ligunjang

No.3 – Sharon Walker

No.4 – Cindy Jessica Frenendez

No.5 – Elinna Musiun in an attire of the Kadazan Penampang.

No.6 – Elsie R. Marius elegant in a Srimpak Dusun Tindal inspired from the district of Kota Belud.

No.7 – Ariel Jezlynda Jimmy was dazzling wearing the costume instinctive of the Lotud Tuaran.

No.8 – Angena Rubinsin

No.9 – Patricia Francis Jiolin

No.10 – Carrie Grace Jaymes

No.11 – Clarencena Kadius dressed in a Rungus outfit, a design uniquely dissimilar from the other contestants yet stunning.

No.12 – Anastasha Dina Yahia brilliant with her Sinuga Penampang costume.

No.13 – Pearl Dianne Petrus was refined and elegant donning the costume of Kadazan Penampang.

No.14 – Florencia Shamsudin graceful in her Murut dress.

No.15 – Macdelina Masidah wearing the Dusun Lotud clothing.

The public was given a show of local artistes performing a number of songs in the Kadazan language. Despite the rain still pouring as late as 9.30 p.m, the crowd stayed on regardless. Goes to show that this annual occasion always has the locals and foreigners filled with jovial spirits. As the night almost reached its apex, the results came in and with the elevation of emotions and suspense everyone felt it was worth the wait all through the harsh weather.

Presenting the winners …

Creative Design was given to #8 contestant, Miss Angena Rubinsin.

Miss Patricia, contestant #9 managed to collect the most votes via SMS thus winning her the Tati Tavanus Celcom category.

With the complementary categories completed, it was time to announce the Top 7 that made it into the 2^nd Heat of the illustrious city level pageant. For all that joined the competition and also the public, each and every one of these charming ladies are already winners. All the participants that did not manage to get into the finals are also awarded complimentary cash of MYR350.00.

7th – Ms. Cindy Jessica Frenendez.

6^th – Ms. Richelle Audery J. Jautin which was also awarded the Best Costume.

5^th – Ms. Clerencena Kadius

4^th – Ms. McDelina

3^rd – Ms. Elsie R. Marius, winning cash prize of MYR2500 and a ticket to Labuan courtesy of Air Asia.

2^nd – Ms. Elinna Musiun which managed to win cash prize of MYR3000.00 and an Air Asia ticket to Kuala Lumpur.

And the winner of Unduk Ngadau Kota Kinabalu …

Miss Pearl Dianne Petrus.

Since the beginning of this memorable event she was known to be the most propitious among the participants. Winning the hearts of both the crowd and the judges, this resplendent and statuesque 5’ 8” lady was also seen as one of the most favored contestant to win the Miss Popular category in which she also won that night.

Along with the honor of wearing the crown, Ms. Pearl also took home with her cash prize of MYR4000.00, hamper from Nestle and a trip to Bali courtesy of Air Asia. She will be contesting for the coming state level Unduk Ngadau which is the most renowned pageant in Sabah. Participants from all over the state will be eyeing for this esteemed title and it will definitely be a marvelous and wonderful festival.

Congratulations to all the winners and we wish them all the best in the upcoming state level Tadau Kaamatan event which will be held this weekend at KDCA.

Be sure to stay tuned to lifeinborneo.com as the crew makes its way to this ostentatious festival.

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Posted by Xander on May 27th, 2009 in Culture & Traditions, Events, Festivals

From 14th to 16th of this month, Kota Kinabalu city was the venue for its annual city level of the Tadau Kaamatan happening every year in the month of May. The Kaamatan festival is held annually and probably one of the most indigenous and illustrious celebration in Sabah. Held within every level of the state from the villages, moving to the districts and finally converging at its pinnacle at state level.

This Kaamatan festival is a uniquely momentous affair for the Kadazan people in which to honour the Bambarayon which is also known as ‘Spirit of the Paddy’ and also to thank the god Kinoingan for their plenteous harvest and for fostering friendships and prolonged life on this earth through this festival.

As was last year, the whole spread of the Gaya Street and Lintasan Deasoka was vivid and dazzling with an assortment of radiant lights and a throng of high spirited people both foreign and domestic. The streets were dotted with diverse mixture of stalls and booths. A traditional hut in the centre of Lintasan Deasoka was set up presenting the range of traditional necklaces, locally made handicrafts and costume jewelry that many suburban Kadazan locals still wear till today.

This place is set to be one of the hottest tourist spot all throughout the year in Kota Kinabalu since this city-level event was started last year.

Upon the arrival of the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Y.B Datuk Masidi Manjun at 8.15 p.m, he was greeted with a warm welcome from the Kota Kinabalu City Mayor Datuk Iliyas Ibrahim and also a traditional dance by the performers from the Tourism Board.

A speech was given by the Mayor of Kota Kinabalu city, indicating the significance of this years’ theme which is “To Mould a Better Future”. Kaamatan festival being the hub for nurturing harmony and togetherness among the multifarious ethnic groups that exists in Sabah, he reminds every one what could be achieved when we cooperate together to better understand one another through cultural diversity and work hard to maintain a healthy relationship for the future.

After the speech was given, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment, Y.B Datuk Masidi Manjun and the Mayor were accompanied by other delegates upon the stage to officiate the carnival with the Gong-hitting ceremony.

Everyone was given a presentation by the Maktab Sabah Choir Group; a high school within the Kota Kinabalu district, with their dance and song performance.

The Magavau rite was up next upon the stage as it is a significant part of the Kaamatan festival. Magavau is the Kadazan word which in essence means ‘to recover what one has lost’.

It also refers to the charge of the Bobohizan, an elder high priestess, to reclaim what was lost, taken or abandoned Bambarayon/Bambaazon or spirit of the rice.

At 9.15 pm, the dancers yet again enthralled the crowd with their immaculate choreography as they performed the Sumazau which translates to ‘dancing’ in the Kadazan language. The show went on with the Magunatip, a bamboo dance. The dancers with their meticulous timing and feat would dance through the snapping bamboo shoots thumping at their feet as they are brought together by other performers.

The throng of people that gathered around the stage was also given a show of fireworks at 10.00 pm, which also marked the climax of the night where the contestants of the Kota Kinabalu city level of the well known Unduk Ngadau event; were brought upon stage. These young and vibrant ladies of the Kadazan-dusun descent are to compete for the title of Kota Kinabalu Unduk Ngadau and to represent the city in the final state level of this prestigious occasion.

Among the categories were Miss Popular and Miss Tati Tavanus Celcom. The winner of Tati Tavanus would be ascertained by the number of SMS votes (text message) they collect in this three day event and as for Miss Popular; these are determined to be the winner if they managed to acquire the most bouquets of flowers given to them by the public; the flowers were being sold every night of this event to the public.

The VIPs and delegates were among the first to show their favorites that night and many of the ladies received plentiful amount of bouquets; notably the ones that had most that night were 18 year old Miss Macdelina Masidah, 20 year old Pearl Dianne Petrus and 22 year old Cindy Jessica Frenendez. Though only on the final night will the winners be revealed.

The night was still young as can be seen from the number of people still captivated by the show on the stage, Linda Nanuwil was also invited to perform a couple of Kadazan songs. She was quite the crowd puller; being one of the favorites in the last Akademi Fantasia 6 show (a local singing competition shown in national cable network) it was no surprise why the Kota Kinabalu Tadau Kaamatan city level event was as memorable as it was last year.

Stay tuned for ‘Part 2′ of the Kota Kinabalu City Tadau Kaamatan Carnival 2009 which showcases the finals of the Unduk Ngadau and high lights of the second and final night of this event, coming up soon in lifeinborneo.com.

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Posted by Xander on April 15th, 2009 in Culture & Traditions, Events, Festivals

April 3rd – 5th 2009, Murut Cultural Centre – Situated 10 kilometers away from Tenom town in Kampung Pulong, located saliently at the left side of the road if one is traveling from Kota Kinabalu City.

Sits in the middle of this area of 33 acres positioned next to the Pegalan River is the building of the Murut Cultural Center exorbitantly built and designed covering an area of up to 871,200 square feet. This monumental structure exhibits some of the most engrossing and fascinating gallery displaying artifacts which include vases, gongs and traditional percussion and wind instruments originating from the autochthonous Murut people.

Built from local timber, the Murut Cultural Center was constructed with elements of Murut architectures in mind. Within its structures one can see the carvings upon large pillars which have significance and meaning to the Murut People like the ‘Sinimpung’.

Sinimpung

This chiseled carving is usually displayed in the visitors’ area in the Murut houses to show guests to have better understanding and encourage them to establish better relationships among feuding tribes. It also proves that a harmonious coexistence between them could be nurtured by informing the rest of the community of the strong unity among the Murut people.

The Murut comprises of several sub groups such as Tagol, Timogun, Paluan, Kolor Baukan, Nabai, Sambakung, Alumbis, Ambual, Serudung, Tenggara, etc. Traditionally the Murut people inhabit the interior and south-eastern parts of Sabah and the territory athwart the Kalimantan and Sarawak borders. Most of them are shifting cultivators and hunters with some riverside fishing. Nowadays, the Murut people are educated and skillful and have joined the public service, owning their own businesses and professional sectors and as well as politicians.

For this festive occasion, many stalls were set up around this elegant structure which also contains the Murut Cultural Museum which houses the history of these indigenous people dating back since the early 1970s’.

What made the Kalimaran Festival this year special was that a mock Murut wedding-rite of the sub-ethnic Murut Tagol known as ‘Tinauh’ was held at the Langsaran House located within the compound of the Murut Cultural Centre. ‘Tinauh’ word also means congregation feast.

Organized by the Ministry of Arts and Culture Sabah and with the valued cooperation of the Murut Society of  Sabah; this ceremony was graced with the attendance of several dignitaries and VIPs. The ‘Tinauh’ was officiated by YB Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Bernard G. Dompok, chairman of Rumpun Momogun and Minister in the Prime Ministers’ Department; with the bamboo-cutting ceremony known as ‘Ahimbalut’.

He also gave a speech to the public addressing them concerning the program which is part of this event called “Program Merakyatkan Seni Budaya” or “Art and Culture for the People”. Its purpose is to promote and encourage the public, especially from the suburban areas to be more active and be part of traditional and cultural activities such as the Kalimaran Festival. It is also important to en kindle the spirit of communal cooperation within their society and strengthen the bonds with one another.

At the end of the ceremony, a large feast took place within and around the compound of the Langsaran house catered to the public. With such a copious crowd that comprised of both locals and foreigners alike; it was this convivial assemblage of people that made this three day affair quite an amazing event.

Meanwhile back at the Murut Cultural Centre, a traditional dance competition was held. It was joined by various groups from all over Sabah; the dance is known as ‘Magunatip’. In their endemic attires these performers were elegant and fascinating with their choreography.

With such a setting and grandiose architecture and locale; it’s no wonder the Kalimaran Festival at the Murut Cultural Centre this year was some of the best places to be in Sabah.

Source – Murut Cultural Museum.

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Posted by Xander on February 3rd, 2009 in Culture & Traditions, Events, Festivals

In welcoming the Lunar New Year 2009, the Chinese New Year Carnival was held at Lintasan Deasoka; right in the heart of Kota Kinabalu city. This market which is located along the stretch of Gaya Street, was held annually within the state capital. From January 19th to the 23rd, many performances were also put up to commemorate the festivities and celebration of a year which promises to cultivate hard work and bring about prosperity; which is the Year of the Ox.

The Carnival was filled with celebration and anticipation of the Lunar New Year and it was apparent on the faces of so many people that came to Lintasan Deasoka. With the crowd full of joy and merriment from the spirit of such festivities in welcoming the Lunar Year, many were also present to check out what items that catches their eye at the market because this only happens once a year. The streets were brightly lit with Chinese lanterns (which is also known as ‘Tang Lung’ ) hung along the market; coruscating and resplendent amidst the multifarious vendors along the stretch of Gaya Street.

Cultural performances could also be seen upon the stage which also included traditional Chinese songs and dances performed by so many talented and charming young performers and artists. From the 21st to 22nd, the performances included a singing competition as well, both which were performed by students from local schools in Kota Kinabalu city. The performers mostly in their traditional Chinese costumes frolicking and enjoying themselves whilst putting on a good show, made their whole performance much more breathtaking and awe-inspiring.

Seeing so many lively faces especially on the children, due to the items that the diversity of vendors had to offer at the night market. Various items were so appealing along the whole stretch which included not only colorful, marvelous lanterns and decorations for the Chinese new year jubilation but also wonderful assortment of delightful and tasty pastries, biscuits and candies. These are some of the unique items sold at the night market for this jovial season.

The closing ceremony which was held on the 23rd, was executed flawlessly and attended by so many, from locals to tourists and high officials alike which was ended with displays of scintillating fireworks.

Life in Borneo would like to wish all our  Chinese readers, wherever you are; Gong Xi Fa Cai, Happy Chinese New Year! Let us welcome this year with an open heart and willingness to work hard together and bring about prosperity to each other.

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Posted by Daniel on January 21st, 2009 in Culture & Traditions, Events, Festivals

The Dragon, Unicorn and Lion Dance Festival 2009 was held at Padang Merdeka, Kota Kinabalu last Saturday, 17th January 2009. More than a dozen dance troupes from schools, clubs and associations from all around Sabah took part in this grand event which was held in celebration of the coming Chinese New Year.

The festival was officiated by Deputy Chief Minister Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri Panglima Yahya Hussin, who represented the Chief Minister of Sabah, Yang Amat Berhormat Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Haji Aman. There were a host of other dignitaries that attended the event, including Datuk Raymond Tan, Datuk Yee Moh Chai and the Mayor of Kota Kinabalu, Datuk Illyas Ibrahim.

The highlights of the festival were the dances, performed using props shaped into one of the three mythical creatures of Chinese folklores – the Lion, the Dragon and the Unicorn. These dances were performed with martial arts discipline but with the grace of a dancer, perfectly choreographed to deliver breathtaking stunts.

The Dragon, Unicorn and Lion Dance Festival 2009 was the biggest event held in Kota Kinabalu so far, and we are certain that more and much bigger events will be heading our way in the Year of the Ox. What a way to start the Chinese New Year!

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Posted by Raz on December 25th, 2008 in Announcement, Festivals

We here at lifeinborneo.com would like to wish all our Christian readers Merry Christmas 2008. May you and your loved ones be joyous this festive season.

Artwork by ZieDesign

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Posted by Daniel on July 1st, 2008 in Culture & Traditions, Events, Festivals, Promotionals, Travels

The World Harvest Festival 2008 was held at the Sarawak Cultural Village in Santubong, Sarawak on the 24th and 25th of May. Lifeinborneo.com took this opportunity to cover the two day annual Borneo cultural event which featured ethnic music and costumes, locally made products such as food and handicrafts, an Ethnic Beauty Pageant and a spectacular theme play based on a Bidayuh folklore.

In the fourth and final part of our coverage of the World Harvest Festival 2008, we have the Miss Fair & Lovely 2008 Ethnic Beauty Pageant, where 14 young and beautiful contestants vie for the honour of being chosen as the fairest of them all in this year’s World Harvest Festival.

All 14 contestants

their special performances before the result announce

Ms. Siti Rokiah Abdul Majed, Miss Congeniality 2008

Ms. Pearlycia Brooke, Miss SMS Voters 2008 and Miss Best Traditional Costume 2008

Ms. Fatin Syahira Yusuf, Miss Beauty Photogenic 2008

Ms. Ramdaniza Hasbi, 2nd Runner-up

Ms. Cassandra Daniel Manja, 1st Runner-up

Ms. Pearlycia Brooke, Miss Fair & Lovely 2008

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Posted by Daniel on June 23rd, 2008 in Culture & Traditions, Events, Festivals, Legends

The World Harvest Festival 2008 was held at the Sarawak Cultural Village in Santubong, Sarawak on the 24th and 25th of May. Lifeinborneo.com took this opportunity to cover the two day annual Borneo cultural event which featured ethnic music and costumes, locally made products such as food and handicrafts, an Ethnic Beauty Pageant and a spectacular theme play based on a Bidayuh folklore.

In the third part of our coverage of the World Harvest Festival 2008, we have a theme play based on a 500 year old Bidayuh legend, titled Panglima Kulow. The show was played out at the Sarawak Cultural Village’s lake at night, with an army of casts and a display of impressive special effects worthy of a movie.

Once Upon A Time, In The Land of the Hornbills…

The theme play for World Harvest Festival 2008 was titled Panglima Kulow – The Saviour of Bung Bratak. Several generations ago in Sarawak, Panglima Kulow was the leader of the Bidayuh village of Bung Bratak, which have prospered peacefully for generations. He guided his people in time of prosperity, in times of hardship, and in times of rebuilding and renewal. This theme play retold that epic story, using Disney-like special effects and dozens of actors and actresses to play out the tale in front of live spectators.

Lights Off. Silence Please.

As any show would do, the theme play started with the telling of the origin of Panglima Kulow’s tale. But what caught our attention was HOW they start off the show.

Before they began the theme play, they turned off the lights. The entirety of Sarawak Cultural Village was covered in total darkness. Only the whispers of the audience and the creaking chatter of insects could be heard.

Blind as a mole and with only the staffers’ flashlights to illuminate the walk path, we made our way to the guest seatings while imagining how they were going to perform this theme play. As we reached our destination, we discovered that the seating was positioned directly overlooking the lake. It was at that moment that a realization set upon us: they were going to use the lake and its surrounding as their stage.

A Legend Re-enacted

Seven fireballs flew down from the night sky like meteorites, each one trailing after another, and splashed down into the lake in front of an audience of hundreds. A spotlight then moved to highlight the rooftop of one of the longhouses by the lake, where seven dancers were dancing in a graceful and hypnotic motion.

That was how the show’s introduction went off – it gripped the audience’s attention right from the start.

Watching the theme play was like hearing those mystical stories your grandparents used to tell you about, only that it was actually happening right before your waking eyes. Suffice to say, we have never seen anything like it before (in person at least). The amount of special effects that went into this production must have been immense; without those visual effects, the theme play would not have been as jaw-dropping or as memorable.

And they lived happily ever after

The essence of the story, I believe, was unity. Panglima Kulow held his people together in times of hardship throught the unity of his people. Towards the end of the theme play, he united two communities together through the marriage of his son and the daughter of the other tribe. Like the bedtime stories our grandparents used to tell us, the tale of Panglima Kulow’s mystical pull was that it combined entertainment with storytelling in the most surreal way. And like those bedtime stories, there’s always that moral-of-the-story at the conclusion of the tale, and in Panglima Kulow, the point of it was unity. Take out all those visual effects, all those colourful props, and you’ll find a story that teaches you the virtue of living in harmony.

Entertainment, art, culture, teaching – all creatively woven into a brilliant theme play.

Up next, the most unique ethnic beauty pageant…

Stay tuned to lifeinborneo.com as we bring you the final part of our coverage of World Harvest Festival 2008, where we have the Miss Fair & Lovely Ethnic Beauty Pageant.

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