Tri-ethnic gathering in Bau celebrates unity through food, culture
Members of the Malay, Chinese and Bidayuh communities pose for a group photo showcasing their respective traditional dishes.
KUCHING (May 29): The fragrance of rice dumplings filled the air as hearts came together in harmony during a tri-ethnic fellowship gathering held in Bau on May 26, in conjunction with the Dragon Boat Festival.
Organised by the Sarawak United Peoples' Party (SUPP) Bau branch in collaboration with the Kampung Melayu village, security and development committee, the event brought together Malay, Chinese, and Bidayuh communities in a celebration of cultural unity.
The highlight of the gathering was the sharing of traditional dishes – Chinese 'zongzi' (sticky rice dumplings), Malay 'ketupat', and Bidayuh 'pogang' – each carrying distinct flavours and preparation styles, yet all share a common base: glutinous rice, wrapped and steamed.
'This simple fact mirrors our multicultural society – unique on the outside, but deeply connected at the core,' SUPP Bau said in a press release.
'When we choose to sit together, share our stories, and celebrate our cultures, unity becomes more than a word – it becomes a lived experience.'
Organising chairperson Chung Sze Yung described the event as a reminder of how far people can go together, regardless of skin colour or language, when united in mutual respect.
'I hope Bau will continue to become a place where mutual respect, care, and love between communities flourish,' she said in her speech.
SUPP Bau chairman Chong Yie Loong highlighted that while cultures may differ, they are linked by a shared spirit, symbolised by the common use of glutinous rice in traditional foods.
'Our cultures are like three different delicacies – Chinese chicken dumplings, Malay ketupat, and Bidayuh pogang. Yet here we are, enjoying them at the same table.
'Cultural exchange is the beginning of unity,' he added.
In addition to cultural showcases and festive sharing, SUPP Bau has also fulfilled its community service mission by donating four solar-powered lights to the Kampung Melayu multipurpose hall and distributing six aid packages to Bidayuh families ahead of the Gawai celebration. Bau Dragon Boat Festival lead SUPP tri-ethnic fellowship gathering
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