Sibu to celebrate National Day with Iban music, dance, and eco-themed costume competitions

Borneo Post

26-07-2025

Ling says each participating team must comprise at least one dancer, either solo or in a group, and a music team of up to four members using traditional Iban instruments.
SIBU (July 26): Kumpulan Sibu D'Tari is organising two traditional-themed competitions, set for staging this Aug 30 in celebration of National Day.
The events will be running from 8pm to 11pm at Taman Harmoni Carpark here, with Sibu MP Oscar Ling sponsoring this initiative.
The programme will feature a secondary school-level 'betaboh' (Iban traditional music) and 'ngajat' (Iban traditional dance) competition, as well as a primary school-level patriotic and eco-friendly costume showcase.
The initiatives seek to instil a sense of cultural pride and raise environmental consciousness among students and the wider community.
'The 'betaboh' and 'ngajat' competition is open to all secondary school students residing in Sibu,' said Ling in a statement.
Ling said each participating team must comprise at least one dancer, either solo or in a group, and a music team of up to four members using traditional Iban instruments.
Each group would have up to five minutes to perform.
'Registration is limited to the first 10 teams that sign up.'
Meanwhile, the costume showcase is open to primary school pupils, with participation capped at 25 entries.
Participants are required to design and model costumes inspired by Malaysian culture and unity, with at least 70 per cent of the materials made from recyclable or eco-friendly components.
Each participant will have two minutes to present their creation, and prizes will be awarded to the top five.
The registration deadline for both events is this Aug 21.
Prizes for each of the 'betaboh' and 'ngajat' competitions are RM1,200 for the winner, RM900 for first runner-up, and RM700 for the second runner-up, along with trophies and certificates.
The Top 5 contenders of the costume showcase will receive RM300, RM250, RM200, RM150, and RM100, along with trophies and certificates.
There are also consolation hampers to be given away.
'Hopefully, these competitions not only encourage a deeper appreciation for traditional heritage, but also foster a sense of pride and identity among the younger generation,' said Ling.
He expressed hope that students from all schools in Sibu would participate actively, and that the community would turn up to show support for local young talents.
For further details, contact event coordinator Dickiy Zulkalnain on 0111-1264 4200. Kumpulan Sibu D'Tari lead national day oscar ling