SIBU: This year the theme of ‘Flora and Fauna’ for the 16th Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF) 2023 signifies a green environment Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) is striving towards.
Stating this, chairman of SMC Clarence Ting Ing Horth pointed out that Sibu is on the edge of big changes.
“The state government’s planning for urban renewal in Bukit Assek is an exciting time for development in SMC area.
“Ever since I became chairman in September 2019, I have emphasised on the need for a clean and healthy environment in Sibu.
“This work is never ending and sometimes it may be frustrating but the results are always rewarding,” he said in his speech at the 16th BCF’s opening ceremony held at its main stage in town square here on Friday night.
Deputy Premier Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian, who is also the Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, was in attendance to officiate at the opening ceremony.
The BCF organised by SMC is an annual gathering of all the major ethnic groups of Malay/Melanau. Iban and Chinese which showcases their culture in dance, songs, art and unique cuisine for the next 10 days.
Ting hoped those who are part of the festival would work together to keep the environment clean and pleasant for the visitors and workers alike.
Of late, he pointed out that the government emphasis on Sustainable Development Goals or SDG for short is the new objective of every council.
“We, in the council, have participated in seminars in Malaysia and overseas to familiarise ourselves with the goals and objectives of the SDG. In short it is about climate change, reducing environmental damage, using technology to combat the challenges of council services and smart city concepts.
“SMC recently introduced street sweeping vehicle to sweep all the streets in downtown Sibu. We are monitoring this closely. If the results are positive we will use this type of vehicles to sweep all the major roads in future,” he said.
Earlier organising committee chairman Councillor Mohd Abdullah Izkandar, In his welcoming speech, said SMC had chosen an exquisite theme that celebrated the mesmerising beauty of the local flora and fauna for this year.
According to him, the decision to focus on this theme stemmed from deep appreciation for the natural wonders in the surroundings of Sibu, and Borneo also known worldwide for its rich biodiversity.
On the BCF structure, which serves as an emblematic representation of the theme, he said. it resembles a beautiful butterfly perched upon a group of flowers, with motifs inspired by the cultural heritage of the Malay/Melanau, Iban, and Chinese communities.
“Just like the butterfly, which symbolises transformation and renewal, this arch symbolises the unification of our diverse cultures and their harmonious coexistence.
“The choice of the butterfly as a central motif represents the delicate balance we must strike in preserving our environment and cultural heritage. Butterflies are not only enchanting creatures but also play a crucial role as pollinators, contributing to the survival and growth of our floral ecosystem.
“Similarly, the three flowers beneath the butterfly symbolise the Malay/Melanau, Iban and Chinese communities, representing their unique contributions to our cultural tapestry,” Iskandar, who is also deputy SMC’s chairman, explained.
“This year’s festival also seeks to showcase the interconnection between our natural environment and the cultural diversity that thrive within it,” he said, adding that through various performances, exhibitions, and interactive activities, SMC aimed to foster a deeper understanding of collective responsibility in safeguarding the environment while celebrating the vibrant traditions.
