OYA: The local community here has contributed significantly to the Melanau Heritage Gallery.
Dalat assemblywoman Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah disclosed that many of the artifacts displayed in the gallery are from the community’s heritage treasures.
“I believe that there will be more individuals from the local community who will be in touch with the gallery to donate or lend other artifacts,” she said, while describing the gallery as a community gallery.
She said this in her speech during the launch of the Melanau Heritage Gallery in Oya Square which was officiated at by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg today.
The Women, Childhood and Community Development Minister said the proposal for establishing the gallery was approved by Abang Johari in 2017 and the physical construction works began in 2019 until 2021 whereas interior works commenced in December 2021.
“Gallery 1 has a story line and it is a place of reference for artifacts. It touches on the history of Oya from when it was under the Brunei administration, the Brooke Era, the Japanese Era until the formation of Malaysia.
“Meanwhile, Gallery 2 showcases the Melanau’s economic activities, cultural practices, local figures, interesting places in Dalat constituency and clothing.
“The Lembaga Amanah Kebajikan Melayu Oya (LAKMO) and Muslim Welfare Organisation Malaysia (PERKIM) offices are located on the first floor. There are also the Melanau clothing rental services available for photo taking.
“Besides that, the Anjung Tinjau offers visitors a view of picturesque nature, jet ski and river cruise,” she said.
Fatimah revealed that plans were in place to establish a second Melanau Heritage Gallery.
“The second gallery would focus on Melanau traditional medicine or shamanism, traditional music, games, handicrafts, and our traditional delicacies.
“It will also showcase the Kaul Sungai and Kaul Laut culture as well as Melanau traditions. We also hope to have a workshop or mini auditorium,” she added.
