Latest news with #Melanau
Sinar Daily
3 days ago
- Sinar Daily
'Tumpik', traditional Melanau pancake that delights the palate
Tumpik is made from sago flour and grated coconut, with a bit of salt added to enhance the flavour. 20 Jul 2025 11:00am Tumpik, a traditional Sarawak delicacy, once served as a staple during the British colonial era. More than just a snack, it can be enjoyed with various fillings such as shrimp, fish, and gula apong (palm sugar), as showcased during the launch of Serumpun Sarawak. Photo by Bernama BEHIND its crispy exterior and chewy interior, tumpik - a traditional pancake from Sarawak made from sago and coconut - is rarely featured in the mainstream culinary scene. According to Sarawak-born chef Laura Bara Sim, this ethnic dish from the Melanau community may appear simple in terms of ingredients and appearance but it carries deep cultural and historical value. Sim, who actively promotes Sarawak's culinary heritage, said tumpik is made from sago flour and grated coconut, with a bit of salt added to enhance the flavour. "It has a slightly salty and creamy taste of coconut, with a chewy inside and a crispy outer layer. Simple but delicious,' she told Bernama recently after a cooking demonstration held in conjunction with a press conference on 'Serumpun Sarawak', a cultural and gastronomy exhibition to spotlight Sarawak's indigenous food heritage and organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak and the Sarawak Tourism Board. Sarawak Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah (second from left) prepares a traditional Sarawak dish called Tumpik, guided by Chef Laura Bara Sim during the launch of Serumpun Sarawak at a hotel recently. Photo by Bernama The chef, who is of mixed Iban and Bidayuh descent, also noted that one of the unique aspects of tumpik is that no oil is used in its preparation; instead, it is cooked on a non-stick pan. "The sago and coconut mixture just needs to be lightly pressed onto the pan and left to cook slowly. Once the bottom turns crispy, that's the sign that the tumpik is ready to be served,' she said. Once a staple food, especially during the British colonial era in Sarawak, tumpik can be eaten as it is or with added fillings such as shrimp or fish, or palm sugar. "Sago trees are abundant in Sarawak, so the people there produce flour from the trunks and turn it into various foods. "In Peninsular Malaysia, the Sarawak dishes people often hear about are usually Sarawak laksa or ayam pansuh. But tumpik remains relatively unknown, possibly because it is rarely sold commercially,' she said. She believes that tumpik could become one of Sarawak's iconic dishes, much like Sarawak layer cake and laksa, if given wider promotion at food festivals, cafes or hotels. Tumpik, a traditional Sarawak delicacy, once served as a staple during the British colonial era. More than just a snack, it can be enjoyed with various fillings such as shrimp, fish, and gula apong (palm sugar), as showcased during the launch of Serumpun Sarawak. Photo by Bernama "In addition to its great taste, one of the strengths of tumpik is its easily available ingredients and simple preparation process, making it a suitable choice for breakfast or afternoon tea or as a light snack at home,' she said. She also said that as one of over 160 Sarawak dishes to be showcased at 'Serumpun Sarawak' in Osaka, Japan, from Aug 5 to 8, tumpik reflects the unique identity of the Melanau people and their adaptation to natural resources, especially the sago tree, which thrives in coastal areas. She added that the initiative to bring Sarawak food to the international stage not only introduces Borneo's gastronomic culture to the world but also opens up opportunities for local entrepreneurs to explore the commercial potential of this underrepresented ethnic heritage. - BERNAMA More Like This
Barnama
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Barnama
SMC Makes Malaysia Book Of Records With 18.3m Melanau Swing
SIBU, July 13 (Bernama) -- The Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) has earned a place in the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) with the itut, an 18.3-metre traditional Melanau swing, built as a highlight of this year's Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF). Erected at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phase 1 by members of the Persatuan Kebajikan Melanau Kampung Nangka, the ride attracted a total of 2,288 visitors, exceeding the initial target of 2,000, thanks to the favourable weather throughout the 10-day festival, which began on July 3. SMC chairman Clarence Ting Ing Horh received the MBOR certificate from its representative, Edwin Yeoh, during the closing ceremony of the 21st edition of BCF last night, officiated by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian. Dr Sim said BCF 2025 had successfully showcased the rich diversity of Borneo's culture, music and ethnic traditions through a variety of performances, community-driven activities and cultural exhibitions. 'Over the past 10 days, the public has had the opportunity to witness the creativity and traditions of diverse communities, which also helped strengthen unity and reinforce the Bornean identity,' he said in his speech read by the State Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee. He extended his appreciation to the individuals, government agencies, cultural practitioners, traders, and enforcement officers involved for their commitment in ensuring the smooth running of this year's festival. Dr Sim noted that events like the festival not only serve as entertainment platforms but also play a crucial role in strengthening social bonds, promoting tourism and enhancing public well-being. 'These are key elements in building resilient, cohesive, and culturally-rooted communities,' he added. He congratulated SMC and its co-organisers on what he called one of the most successful editions of BCF, expressing hope that the spirit of unity and cultural appreciation shown throughout will continue to thrive in the community.
The Sun
13-07-2025
- The Sun
Sibu sets Malaysia record with 18.3m Melanau swing at cultural fest
SIBU: The Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) has secured a spot in the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) with its towering 18.3-metre Melanau swing, known as the itut. Built as the centrepiece of this year's Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF), the swing became a major attraction, drawing 2,288 visitors, surpassing the initial target of 2,000. The swing was constructed by members of the Persatuan Kebajikan Melanau Kampung Nangka at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phase 1. Favorable weather throughout the 10-day festival, which ran from July 3, contributed to the high turnout. During the closing ceremony of the 21st BCF, SMC chairman Clarence Ting Ing Horh received the MBOR certificate from Edwin Yeoh, a representative of the record-keeping body. The event was officiated by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian. Dr Sim praised the festival for successfully highlighting Borneo's cultural diversity through performances, exhibitions, and community activities. 'Over the past 10 days, the public has had the opportunity to witness the creativity and traditions of diverse communities, which also helped strengthen unity and reinforce the Bornean identity,' he said in a speech read by State Deputy Minister Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee. He commended organisers, government agencies, and participants for ensuring the festival's smooth execution. Dr Sim emphasised that such events go beyond entertainment, playing a vital role in fostering social cohesion, boosting tourism, and enhancing community well-being. The festival featured over 30 ethnic groups, with activities ranging from musical performances to traditional food bazaars. Dr Sim expressed hope that the unity and cultural appreciation displayed during BCF 2025 would continue to flourish. - Bernama
Borneo Post
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
SMC enters Malaysia Book of Records with iconic ‘itut' at BCF 2025
Yeoh (fifth left) hands over the MBOR certificate to Ting, witnessed by Tiang (sixth left), while Kampung Nangka Melanau Welfare Association chairman Councillor, Abang Carrol Abang Dris, who is also the itut organising chairman (right), Chieng (third left), Ling (fourth left), (from second right) Joshua, Hii, Lau and others look on. – Photo by Peter Boon SIBU (July 12): The Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) has made it into the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) for the highest number of visitors swinging on the 50-foot 'itut' – a traditional Melanau swing – set up at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phase 1 during this year's Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF). A total of 2,288 people took part, surpassing the original target of 2,000. MBOR representative Edwin Yeoh presented the certificate to SMC chairman Clarence Ting during the BCF closing ceremony tonight, witnessed by Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government, Datuk Michael Tiang. In a speech read by Tiang, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said festivals like BCF not only entertain but foster social cohesion, tourism, and public well-being. 'They build social cohesion, attract tourism, and promote public well-being by fostering pride in our identity and locality. 'These are elements critical to the fabric of strong, resilient communities, something we prioritize in our public health and development agendas,' he said. Dr Sim also commended the dedication of attendees, performers, vendors, and enforcement personnel who ensured the success and safety of the event. 'Your engagement keeps the spirit of BCF alive and relevant in every passing year. 'As we close this year's edition, I encourage everyone to carry forward the goodwill, knowledge, and appreciation gained. Let 'The Rhythm of Borneo' guide us in building inclusive communities where culture continues to thrive,' he said. Earlier, BCF organising chairman and SMC deputy chairman Mohammed Abdullah Izkandar Roseley said this year's edition stood out for its unity and renewed spirit. 'We saw new talents take to the stage with confidence, alongside cultural groups who have long championed the preservation of ancestral heritage. 'We tasted the richness of cuisines from various communities, admired crafts that blended tradition and innovation, and appreciated diversity with open hearts. 'This is the true beauty of the festival,' he said. The evening featured traditional dance performances and a prize presentation for the Food Premises Toilet Cleanliness Competition. Also present at the event were Sibu MP Oscar Ling, Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng, Senator Robert Lau, Deputy State Secretary (operation) Datu Hii Chang Kee, Sibu Resident Abang Mohamad Porkan Abang Budiman, Political Secretary to Premier Joshua Ting, BCF deputy organising chairlady Cr Michelle Law, and acting Consul-General of the Republic of Indonesia in Kuching, Musa Derek Sairwona.
The Star
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
‘Send Sarawak's cultural troupes abroad for greater exposure'
Snowdan (fifth from right) marking the launch of BCF 2025. He is flanked by (from third, left) Chieng, Ting, Mohammed Abdullah Izkandar and Tiang. SARAWAK'S vibrant traditional arts could soon captivate international audiences, as a state deputy minister has suggested sending the state's cultural troupes abroad. 'Our traditional performers have reached international standards and deserve more exposure through overseas performances,' said Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Deputy Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan. 'That is why we have a creative industry portfolio in our ministry – because we recognise the immense talent in Sarawak. 'Sarawak regularly receives invitations from countries such as Italy, Japan, South Korea, Spain and the Philippines to present traditional dances abroad. 'It is time to take a more proactive approach in sending cultural troupes to represent the state internationally.' Snowdan was speaking at the opening ceremony of the Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF) 2025 in Sibu, Sarawak. He said showcasing cultural dances such as those from Melanau, Iban, Bidayuh, Orang Ulu, Malay and Chinese communities would help promote Sarawak's multicultural identity to global audiences. 'People from abroad are very interested in our traditional dances; it is something they do not see every day. 'Sending our troupes to perform internationally is not just about performance, it is about telling the story of who we are as Sarawakians,' said the Balai Ringin assemblyman. BCF is an annual event that celebrates the region's cultural diversity through music, dance, food and traditional arts, drawing performers and visitors from across Sarawak and beyond. The 21st edition, themed 'Rhythm of Borneo', is ongoing until July 12 at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang. Snowdan, who was representing minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah at the opening ceremony, said BCF not only showcases Sarawak's rich cultural landscape, but also plays a crucial role in preserving it for future generations. 'The festival has become a vital platform where tradition meets modernity and where our younger generation can reconnect with their roots while the world gains a glimpse of Borneo's unique identity. 'It also plays a multifaceted role in promoting tourism, supporting the creative economy and positioning Sibu as a vibrant cultural hub,' said Snowdan. Highlighting the significance of BCF's 21-year legacy, he lauded the dedication of all who had made the festival a success. 'To reach this milestone is no small feat. 'It reflects the passion, teamwork and unwavering commitment of countless individuals who have nurtured this event over the decades,' said Snowdan. BCF organising chairman and Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) deputy chairman Mohammed Abdullah Izkandar Roseley said the council was promoting waste reduction and recycling throughout the festival. 'Visitors are encouraged to dispose of rubbish responsibly using clearly labelled bins for general and recyclable waste,' he said. 'BCF's official mascot 'Engkuli' a clouded leopard, serves as a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to conserve Borneo's biodiversity and to inspire environmental awareness,' he added. Also present at the opening ceremony were Sarawak Public Health, Housing and Local Government Deputy Minister Datuk Michael Tiang, SMC chairman Clarence Ting, and Bukit Assek assemblyman Joseph Chieng.
