KUCHING: The Bidayuh has lost a living heritage with the passing of their ‘ring lady’, Ranyu Daiee.
She passed away around 6am at her home in Kampung Semban, Padawan today. Sources said that Ranyu was 83 years old.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah after hearing the news, expressed his deepest condolences to Ranyu’s family.
“I am so sad to hear this (sad news). Though she might be gone, her legacy and pictures will stay to remind us of the Semban Ring Ladies and the beautiful culture they have.
“Actually, with my ministry’s support, a beautiful mural painting of the ‘Last Ring Ladies’ has just been completed at Mile 10 Bazaar and will be launched soon.
“This (painting) will be one of our ways to remember the late Ranyu Daee,” he said when contacted by New Sarawak Tribune.
The mural measuring 13.7cm x 3.65m, features five ‘Semban Ring Ladies’ wearing traditional yellow copper rings called ‘Rasunk’ng’ on their calves, ‘Rayunk’ng’ on their forearms and ‘Tumbih’ as necklaces — a sign of beauty and prestige.
These ladies are from a sub-tribe of the Bidayuhs indigenous group in Kampung Semban. With Ranyu’s passing, there are only four left to carry on this traditional culture before this beautiful heritage slowly fades into the past.
