MIRI: Ethnic associations play a vital role in nurturing the younger generation and promoting cultural heritage.
“Associations like Kayan Association provide the best platform to groom the younger generation, making them better individuals and global citizens,” said Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts I (Tourism), Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew at the closing ceremony of the Kayan Culture Festival on Sunday night (Nov 17).
“When they are educated and understand their roots, they can thrive anywhere in the world.”
“We cannot allow our culture to disappear. For us Chinese, we have 5,000 years of culture, and we continue to pass it on. Similarly, we must ensure that our children understand their heritage and roots, while also taking pride in being proud Sarawakians and Malaysians.”
Reflecting on his own efforts to connect with his ancestry, Ting shared his experience of visiting China with his children and granddaughter to trace their roots.
He encouraged similar efforts among all communities, including the Kayan, to promote understanding and appreciation of cultural identity.
Ting also praised the younger generation’s talent in traditional arts, citing the example of the Sape, a traditional Kayan string instrument.
“It is crucial to ensure that young people learn to play the Sape. This traditional instrument, with deep roots in Kayan culture, must be passed down and celebrated,” he added.
The Kayan Culture Festival, hosted in Miri this year, will move to Bintulu next year before returning to Miri in 2026.
Also present were Sarawak Kayan Association president and Telang Usan assemblyman Datuk Dennis Ngau and the festival’s organising chairman, Tommy Raymond Jok, alongside other dignitaries.
