KUCHING: The Baram Regatta 2023 is worth reviewing because although ‘The Mother of All Regattas’ is over, the excitement that it caused hasn’t faded. In fact, it will remain in the hearts of those in and around the Baram region for weeks to come.
After a five-year break, the highly anticipated event resumed from last September 28 to October 1
As it turned out, it wasn’t just a thrilling test of strength and endurance; it was a celebration of unity, tradition, and Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage.
The regatta has a long and cherished history dating back to 1899. It was initially organised as a peacekeeping effort to resolve conflicts and headhunting among different ethnic communities in Baram.
Looking back at the just-concluded edition, people from all over Baram came together to celebrate the region’s diverse culture and heritage through two special events organised by Yayasan Perpaduan Sarawak (YPS): Cultural Night, and Piala Perpaduan race, a new addition to the regatta.
The Cultural Night, hosted by the Baram Regatta organising committee, was a beautiful display of unity through traditional melodies and dances. The audience, eager to secure a good view for the night, arrived early in the afternoon to book their seats in the tented outdoor pavilion of the Marudi waterfront.
On the evening of September 30, the picturesque waterfront came alive with a vibrant cultural celebration, beginning at 7pm with a medley performance by five members of Yayasan Perpaduan Sarawak’s Sape Ambassadors. They were accompanied by the talented musicians of Perintis Orkestra Tradisi Remaja Sarawak (POTRES).
The Sape Ambassadors took centre stage, enchanting the audience with their captivating tunes that evoked emotions, conveyed messages, and created a variety of experiences for the listeners.
Their music transported the audience into a world of timeless melodies, symbolising unity among diverse communities. Sarawakian youth from all races, along with a participant from Sabah, showcased their talents on this stage.
What made this performance even more exceptional was the introduction of the Sape Ambassadors themselves. Each player stepped forward and was met with resounding applause from the crowd.
The presence of distinguished guests, including Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing, and Local Government Datuk Dr. Penguang Manggil, Deputy Minister in the Premier of Sarawak’s Department (Labour, Immigration, and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala, Telang Usan assemblyman, and Sarawak Tourism Board’s Chairman, Dennis Ngau, added an extra layer of prestige to the evening.
Penguang, who officiated at the Cultural Night, announced that with the support of Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, the Baram Regatta would now become a biennial event. The premier had allocated funds to ensure the continued success of this cultural extravaganza, which will further strengthen cultural ties and tourism in Sarawak.
The Cultural Night offered more than just music; it showcased traditional dances from various ethnic groups. The audience was treated to captivating performances by the Saban, Penan, Berawan, Chinese, and Orang Ulu communities.
The festivities reached their peak as the 12 finalists for Ratu Baram Regatta 2023 took the stage. In a moment of grandeur, a 26-year-old Kayan woman from Long Bemang in Tutoh Apoh, Baram, was crowned the winner.
Viviana Uring Joseph, a 25-year-old from Rumah Jugah Sungai Belasoi, secured the first runner-up position, while Diana Dayang William, 23, from Long Apu, Baram, became the second runner-up. The coronation ceremony caused the crowd to jubilate with pride as they celebrated the cultural ambassadors of Baram.
On October 1, at the heart of the regatta, Yayasan Perpaduan Sarawak introduced a new race category called Piala Perpaduan. The elegant winner’s trophy symbolised harmony, good fellowship, and dedicated teamwork.
Teams from various communities along the Batang Baram pulled their strength together in the vibrant race atmosphere, paddling through the waters of the Baram River with unwavering determination. They weren’t just competing for victory; there were significant cash rewards and the pride of hoisting the jubilant Piala Perpaduan was at stake.
As the race progressed in the afternoon, the split-second winning teams pulled together their muscles rowing frantically that kept everyone on the edge of their seats, intensifying the highly competitive Piala Perpaduan.
The vociferous supporters lining the riverbanks added to the excitement who took their vintage spots as early as 8am. Cheering on their respective teams competing in different categories with enthusiasm, they created an electric atmosphere. In the end, the jubilant winners celebrated not only their triumph but also the unity and spirit of the event, making it a memorable day for all involved.
It was the Tedung Melancar 8 that was crowned the champions of the Piala Perpaduan race category, displaying exceptional teamwork and paddling skills. Their synchronised strokes and gut determination secured their victory, and they celebrated their achievement with pride, honour and applause.
Not to be outdone, Benerang 4 secured a well-deserved second placing. Their relentless pursuit of excellence and their ability to push themselves to their physical limits were on full display during the thrilling race. They proved that the Piala Perpaduan race was a battle of endurance as much as skill and the ability to keep focused.
Belalang 1, with their unwavering determination and skill, clinched an impressive third place. Their finesse in paddling and unyielding spirit earned them a spot on the podium, a testament to their fighting spirit, dedication and hard work.
While the top three teams revealed their success, it’s important to recognise that the spirit of the Piala Perpaduan extended beyond the winners’ circle. Teams from Kampung Benawa, Nagasaki Mulu, and Irang Dih Madang secured the 4th to 6th positions respectively, receiving valuable consolation prizes in cash.
The Piala Perpaduan competition at the Baram Regatta symbolises unity, bringing together different communities in friendly but fierce competition. It showcases the indomitable spirit of the participants and their commitment in preserving the traditions and heritage of the Baram region.
Meanwhile Tedung Melancar 8, Benerang 4, and Belalang 1 claimed top honours this year, it’s the collective effort and enthusiasm of all teams that makes it truly the Piala Perpaduan race, a highlight of this three-day cultural extravaganza.
The trophy was received by Datin Catherine Awing Wan, President of the Sarawak Berawan Association.
When asked how she felt about the winning team being champions of the Piala Perpaduan, she said, “I feel so happy and excited because it’s the first Piala Perpaduan. We (the Berawan community) wanted to be proud of the achievement because we are the champions from Long Terawan in Mulu, and we are hopeful that we can get more of this trophy in the future.”
The Baram Regatta is a shining example of how these efforts can come to fruition, with people from all walks of life coming together to celebrate their shared culture and values.
Events like the Baram Regatta are invaluable in promoting cultural understanding and preservation. They bridge gaps, create lasting memories, and serve as a beacon of hope for a future where different communities can come together to celebrate their shared humanity.
The Cultural Night at Baram Regatta 2023 was a testament to the enduring spirit of Sarawak’s people and their commitment to fostering unity through culture.
