Abdul Karim proposes establishing food festival to celebrate Subis, Sibuti's cultural and culinary heritage
MIRI (May 3): State Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has proposed a food festival to be held to showcase the unique delicacies and cultural heritage of the Subis and Sibuti areas to the world.
Speaking at the 'Majlis Melanggar Meja' and 'Ramah Tamah Aidilfitri' event at Subis District here today (May 3), Abdul Karim said the celebration reflects the deep-rooted unity among the Kedayan, Malay, Dalik, Miriek, Melanau, Penan, Iban, Chinese and many other ethnics communities in the region.
He highlighted the gastronomic potential of the regions, saying their unique food, culture and way of life are valuable tourism assets deserving global recognition.
'Visitors don't come to shop. They come to experience how people live, to taste their food, and to understand their customs. The gastronomy here is vibrant. This is something we must promote,' he said, adding that the gastronomy of Subis and Sibuti is one of its strongest cultural products.
From Umai to indigenous herbs and traditional cooking techniques, the local fare, he said, deserves a platform that can introduce it to international audiences.
That said, he encouraged the community to take pride in their own culinary heritage, pointing to Umai, which is a raw marinated fish dish, as one of Sarawak's iconic offerings, alongside Sarawak Laksa, which he often showcases abroad during official engagements.
'I have brought chefs overseas to prepare our dishes at events. Even international names like the late Anthony Bourdain recognised Sarawak Laksa as the 'breakfast of the gods', that shows how powerful food can be in promoting our state,' he said.
Abdul Karim also noted that following the recognition of Niah Caves as Unesco World Heritage Site, the state government is already planning to enhance road access, develop resorts and expand rural tourism to support this influx.
He also praised the Majlis Melanggar Meja held at Sibuti Arena – attended by local village development and security committees (JKKKs), government agencies, associations, mosques, and prayer halls – as a model of cultural openness and togetherness.
'The theme, 'Raya Serumpun, Tradisi Harmoni', carries a deep meaning. It symbolises how festive celebrations unite local communities regardless of background,' he said, adding that such customs should not only be preserved but elevated as living cultural elements.
Also present were Deputy Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Rosey Yunus who is also the assemblywoman of Bekenu; Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneurs Development Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat; Deputy Health Minister Malaysia Dato Lukanisman Awang Sauni; Resident of Miri Galong Luang; Deputy Resident of Miri Bujang Rahman Seli; Political Secretary to Premier Sarawak Sarkawi Ulis and Pemanca Dr Ali Mudin.
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