When the music began to play at Riverside Shopping Complex, Kuching, all eyes turned to the dancers stepping gracefully onto the stage. Their movements told stories of community, connection, and the rhythm of life that once pulsed through Salako villages.
It was the final showcase of ‘Bengkel Tari Salako: Totokng dan Ngoncong’, held on October 19 — the highlight of a two-day dance workshop organised by Sherlyn Management Company, also known as SMC Collective.
Supported by the Sarawak Arts Council (MSS) under the MySENI grant, the programme aimed to revive two rarely performed traditional dances of the Salako community: Totokng and Ngoncong.
The event drew curious visitors and local arts enthusiasts alike, eager to witness a glimpse of a cultural heritage seldom seen today.
For many in the audience, it wasn’t just a performance — it was a reminder of the stories and expressions that form the heart of Sarawak’s diverse identity.
Awang Ikman Awang Sepian, acting chief executive officer of MSS, officiated the closing ceremony. His presence underscored the council’s continued support for local artists and grassroots cultural initiatives.
The workshop, held on October 18 and 19 at Studio D. Kaur Resources in MJC Batu Kawa, gathered ten female dance practitioners from various backgrounds.
Under the guidance of Belinda Lim, a dedicated and experienced instructor, participants spent two days learning the rhythms, gestures, and meanings behind the Salako dances — movements that have long carried the values and stories of their people.
Both Totokng and Ngoncong are ceremonial dances known for their graceful tempo and grounded rhythm. Traditionally performed during community gatherings, the dances are rich with symbolism, each step representing harmony between people and nature.
For the participants, the experience was more than just learning a routine — it was about rediscovering identity.
The final showcase was a heartfelt moment of pride and connection. As the dancers moved in sync, dressed in traditional attire, the audience responded with warm applause and quiet admiration.
The evening concluded with a certificate presentation ceremony, recognising the participants’ dedication and spirit.
For organisers and performers alike, the success of the event went beyond the stage. It showed that tradition can still inspire — not as a relic of the past, but as a living expression of who we are.
