LIMBANG: Pesta Babulang should be continued as it is the heritage and identity of the Bisaya, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.
According to him, the festival provides a platform for the Bisaya community in Limbang to showcase their culture, language, art and customs to the public.
“In Sarawak’s context, it is imperative that we celebrate our diversity, regardless of race, religion, customs or culture.
“As a multicultural society, we must embrace the diversity that we have,” he said.
He said this on behalf of Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg when officiating at the 17th Pesta Bebulang and Buffalo Race 2022 at the Sarawak Bisaya Association Cultural Centre in Kampung Batu Danau Limbang here, last Saturday.
Awang Tengah also noted that communal life in Sarawak is marked by a strong sense of tolerance, particularly among intermarried couples.
“We will not change our race if we marry someone of another race or religion.
“If we are Bisaya, we will remain Bisaya; if we are Iban, we will remain Iban; if we are Malay, we will remain Malay; if we are Chinese, we will remain Chinese; there will be no problem.
“This is Sarawak’s peculiarity. Despite their difference, the people of the state can live together, respect each other, and be in harmony,” he pointed out.
During the event, he also presented the Sarawak Bisaya Association RM100,000 for its activities.
