KUALA LUMPUR: The spirit of Sarawakian culture came alive at Central Market Kuala Lumpur from May 23 to 25 as the Borneo Native Festival (BNF) returned with vibrant energy and pride.
Among the festival’s many highlights, the Yayasan Perpaduan Sarawak (YPS) booth emerged as a major attraction, drawing over a thousand visitors from across Malaysia and around the world.
Throughout the three-day event, the YPS booth served as a dynamic cultural hub.
Visitors engaged in interactive sape clinics and live jamming sessions led by the talented YPS sape ambassadors.
“Their performances transformed Central Market into a vibrant melting pot of music, culture and unity,” said Deputy Minister of Economy, Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib, after attending the ‘Rhythm of Unity’ showcase on Saturday evening.
She also took time to personally commend the ambassadors backstage for their inspiring role in promoting unity through music.
The ‘Rhythm of Unity’ Concert, performed on the main stage, marked the debut of the YPS initiative outside Sarawak.
Featuring sape musicians from diverse ethnic backgrounds, the performance wove together traditional Bornean melodies with the musical heritage of Peninsular Malaysia, captivating audiences with its raw emotion and powerful symbolism.
“Their performances were truly impressive, soulful, high-energy and authentic.
“It’s inspiring to see how the sape transcends generations and brings people together,” said festival director, Raffy Syazwan.
The festival also welcomed international guests from Spain, Germany, India, China and beyond, many of whom were drawn to the unique rhythm and warmth of Malaysian hospitality.
YPS takes pride in the cultural maturity and dedication shown by its sape ambassadors who have embraced their role as cultural bridge-builders.
For those who missed it, the full ‘Rhythm of Unity’ Concert is now available on the official Yayasan Perpaduan Sarawak Facebook page.
