SIMANGGANG: Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud’s presence yesterday had enlivened the 18th Edition of Pesta Benak.
Taib’s arrival, accompanied by Assistant Transport Minister Datuk Dr Jerip Susil at 11am, was welcomed by Community Wellbeing Assistant Minister Datuk Francis Harden Hollis.
Also present were Batang Lupar MP Datuk Seri Rohani Abdul Karim, Lingga assemblywoman Simoi Peri, Bukit Bengunan assemblyman Datuk Mong Dagang and Sri Aman Resident Indit Bangai.
Around 10,000 attended the event which was held at Batang Lupar Waterfront in Bandar Simanggang here.
Taib also witnessed several events of the Batang Lupar Benak Regatta and presented prizes to the winners.
Subsequently, Taib was taken to tour the government agency’s exhibition site and informed on the development plans of Sarawak in general and Sri Aman Division especially, before departing at 1pm.
Harden, who is also the Pesta Benak advisor in his speech, emphasised that the organisation of the event this time around was considered as significant.
He said the Pesta Benak was a major tourist activity that attracted not only visitors from inside and outside of the division but even international tourists.
“It is lined up with Batang Lupar Benak Regatta, Benak Bazaar, Benak Surfing, Miss Tourism Benak, Queen of Kebaya, Benak Concert, agency exhibitions and many more,” he said.
He explained that through the festival, it will not only generate income and improve the socio-economic status of the people and to foster unity but also introduce Bandar Simanggang to the world.
“I hope in the future, more parties will be involved in contributing funds and workforce to further enhance Pesta Benak.
“I call on all parties to come together to make this event in Bandar Simanggang an unforgettable memory when visiting here.
“In addition, let us lift up the name of Bandar Simanggang together so that it will continuously be known,” he said.
The Pesta Benak was officiated by Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg last Friday.
