Bahagia Jaya Unit dominates SDNU-SIDS traditional dance contest at Sibu's Gawai Bazaar Carnival
Chambai (fourth left) and Anyie (third left) pose for a photo-call with the winning troupe Bahagia Jaya Unit of SDNU Sibu, taken during the prize-presentation.
SIBU (May 10): The Bahagia Jaya Unit of the Sarawak Dayak National Union (SDNU) Sibu swept top honours in both the 'Betaboh' and Men's Ngajat categories at the SDNU-Sarakup Indu Dayak Sarawak (SIDS) traditional dance competition.
The programme took place at the Taman Tasik Permai Food Court here on Friday night, held in conjunction with the Gawai Dayak Bazaar Carnival.
Their victory in the 'Betaboh' event earned them a certificate of appreciation, a trophy, and a cash prize of RM800.
The Boungenvilla Unit placed second, bagging RM600, followed by Ulu Salim Unit at third place with RM400.
SIDS Sibu Tanjung Penasu Area secured fourth place, receiving a certificate, a trophy, and a consolation prize of RM50.
In the Men's Ngajat category, Bahagia Jaya Unit continued its winning streak with a first-place finish, earning RM300 and a trophy.
Boungenvilla Unit secured second place and received RM250, and Rantau Panjai Unit came third with RM200.
The consolation prize for fourth place was awarded to Menyan Unit, with RM50.
In the Women's Ngajat category, Ulu Salim Unit emerged as champion, receiving RM300, a certificate, and a trophy.
SIDS Sibu Tanjung Penasu Area took second place and earned RM250, followed by SIDS Sibu Seduan Jaya Area in third, with RM200.
SIDS Sibu Rantau Panjai Area received a consolation completing the list of top teams, with a consolation prize of RM50.
In his remarks, SDNU Sibu Cultural Bureau chairman Anyie Angking emphasised the importance of reintroducing traditional games and arts to the younger generation as a means of nurturing cultural pride.
'The response from the youth has been very encouraging, showing that they still appreciate our artistic heritage, particularly the Iban culture,' he said.
The event also served as a platform for showcasing artistic talents and bridging generational ties within the Dayak community in Sibu.
Prizes were presented by SDNU Sibu chairman Chambai Lindong and Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) deputy secretary Sait Enggang.
Also in attendance were SMC councillors Augustine Merikan and Sammy Ngelambai. Bahagia Jaya Unit Dayak SDNU SIDS traditional dance competition
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