KUCHING: Over 200 amateur radio operators from Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and the wider Asia-Pacific region came together for the Borneo Amateur Radio Festival (BARF) 2025 here.
Held at the Batu Lintang Teachers Training College, the one-day event enhanced its status as a premier gathering for enthusiasts across Borneo and beyond.
Political Secretary to the Premier, Bell Bernard Agan opened the event on behalf of Deputy Minister Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu, who commended the Sarawak Amateur Radio Society for its critical communications role during community emergencies.
“The dedication of the amateur radio community to technical innovation and public service is truly admirable,” he said.
Festival highlights included Eyeball QSO, Slalom and Walking Fox Hunt contests, alongside a DX Corner and Special Event Station using the special call sign 9M8BARF, which logged global contacts and issued eQSL cards featuring Borneo’s flora and fauna.
Exhibitors showcased new and pre-owned radio equipment, DIY LoRa devices, trackers and beacons, reflecting the creativity and technical skill of the amateur radio community.
The day ended with a Gala Dinner at Dewan Seri Mahligai, officiated by IARU Region 3 President Wisnu Widjaja and MCMC Sarawak Director Adiman Ajem.
A highlight of the evening was the handover of hosting duties by Liew Chung Haw, President of the Amateur Radio Club Sarawak, who passed the symbolic BARF banner to representatives of ORARI Balikpapan, East Kalimantan, which will host the next festival in 2027.
“The energy and curiosity of the younger generation were incredible.
“Hosting international leaders was a tremendous honour and signals a bright, connected future for amateur radio in Borneo and beyond,” Liew said.
