BAU: Both local and foreign visitors alike throng the Bung Bratak Heritage Centre for the two-day Bung Bratak Festival at Kampung Tembawang Sauh here.
Commencing since last Saturday, there were various activities in the
lineup such as traditional craftwork exhibitions, ‘Nyikoh Bung Bratak’, traditional games corner, among others.
Persatuan Adat Asar Singai (PAA’S) who set up the traditional games corner were the hot spot among the visitors during the festival.
Its president, Eide Ngupel, 52, said the games were aimed at introducing Bidayuh’s traditional games and among those showcased were ‘sirotoung’, ‘main jorouk’, ‘main liew and ‘sipak’.
“Since Sept 2, the response has been very encouraging. Both the youths and foreign visitors have visited the booth to try out all the games,” he told New Sarawak Tribune.
He said such games need to be given more exposure, especially to the younger generation to keep its relevancy.
“This current generation has yet to know about such traditional games as they are always glued to the games in their mobile phones.
“Through such a festival like this, we are able to introduce it to them so that they will know the older generation’s favourite pastimes.
“From there, they will be curious and want to learn more on how to play, not only among young people but also the general public,” he added.
Aside from traditional games, Edie said PAA’S also focuses on indigenous customs, which include rituals and traditional clothing.
