KUCHING: The largest mural in Kota Padawan which features Sarawak’s last Bidayuh ring ladies of Kampung Semban showcases one of the state’s rich culture and heritage.
It is believed that presently, there are only three of them that are still continuing the tradition of wearing the copper coiled rings, which is called Ruyank’ng in the Bidayuh dialect, which is worn on their forearms and Rasunk’ng on their calves.
These ladies would also wear ‘Tumbih’ as necklaces as a sign of beauty and nobility.
When met at the launch of the mural titled ‘Dayung Hmuai Semban’ or ‘The beautiful ring ladies of Semban’ painted by local muralist Leonard Siaw at Kota Padawan Mall today (Dec 14), one of the last ring ladies, Singai Nekan, said she and the other ring ladies are proud to see their faces being painted on the wall.
“I was actually quite shocked. It is so big,” said the 68-year-old Singai as she laughed.
She shared that she and the other ring ladies started to wear the copper coiled rings since they were six years old.
“It (the rings) is not that heavy. We are used to it and would continue to wear them while doing our daily routine,” she said.
She said that initially, there were five of them, but one of them, Ranyu Daiee, 83, has passed away recently this year.
“There is another one. However, due to old age, she has decided to remove the rings,” Singai said.
When asked whether her children or grandchildren have picked up the tradition of wearing the rings, she said the current generation would not want to.
“We can’t force them if they do not want to wear it, but it will be nice if this tradition continues,” she said.
The other ring ladies that were present are Peluk Abeh, 68, and Tawud Luhan, 70.
Meanwhile, Leonard Siaw, 34, when met at the sideline of the event, said he feel deeply honoured and proud to be given the opportunity to paint a piece of the living treasure of Sarawak on the wall.
“I have visited them in their settlement in Kampung Semban. Honestly, we didn’t get to communicate much due to language barrier.
“But the way how they smiled, as well as their eye contact, I feel that they have something to say deep down in their hearts. And that is where I got the inspiration to develop a street art of their culture,” he said.
Siaw said he is touched by the Bidayuh ladies’ culture which is now slowly disappearing and hope through the mural, people will continue to remember them.
