SIBU: Community spirit, cultural preservation and intergenerational unity took centre stage as residents of Sg Bidut, Telok Bangor and Bukit Igu gathered for a Dragon Boat Festival rice dumpling-making activity themed ‘Fragrant Rice Dumplings, Caring Hearts for Our Community’ held at Sg Bidut, West Bank here on Wednesday (June 17).
The event, organised by the Village Development and Security Committees (JKKK) of the three communities, brought together residents of all ages in a celebration of cultural heritage and community bonding.
Speaking at the event, Bawang Assan assemblyman, Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh, commended the organisers and volunteers for their efforts in bringing the community together through a meaningful cultural programme.
He said the theme aptly reflected both the importance of preserving traditional customs and the need to foster compassion, neighbourliness and social cohesion within the community.
“The aroma of rice dumplings reminds us of the rich traditions and values handed down from generation to generation, while caring hearts symbolise our concern and commitment towards our neighbours and the well-being of our community,” he added.
Wong noted that the gathering was more than just a festive celebration, describing it as an opportunity to strengthen relationships, promote unity, and nurture a greater sense of belonging among residents.
He highlighted the significance of the Dragon Boat Festival, one of the most important traditional festivals in Chinese culture, which commemorates the patriotic poet, Qu Yuan.
According to Wong, Qu Yuan’s loyalty, integrity and devotion continue to serve as valuable examples for modern society.
“The festival teaches important values such as patriotism, gratitude, unity, filial piety and community spirit. These values remain relevant today and should continue to be passed on to future generations,” he said.
Wong added that the process of making rice dumplings itself embodies the spirit of cooperation and teamwork.
“From preparing ingredients and bamboo leaves to wrapping and sharing the dumplings, the activity encourages family bonding and mutual assistance among community members,” he reiterated.
He said programmes of this nature play an important role in preserving cultural traditions while creating opportunities for residents from different backgrounds and generations to interact and learn from one another.
“Culture has the power to unite hearts, community activities foster friendship, and compassion helps build a stronger society,” he stressed.
Expressing satisfaction at the strong participation of young people, Wong stressed that cultural heritage could only survive if it was actively transmitted from one generation to the next.
He encouraged elders to continue sharing the stories, traditions and skills associated with the Dragon Boat Festival so that younger generations would better appreciate and preserve their cultural roots.
Touching on Sarawak’s multicultural identity, Wong said the state’s strength lies in its diversity and long-standing harmony among people of different races, religions and cultures.
“The celebration of cultural festivals enriches our society and strengthens mutual understanding and respect among our people. We must continue to cherish and safeguard this harmony, which is one of Sarawak’s greatest strengths,” he added.
Wong also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting community development initiatives, including improvements in infrastructure, education, youth development, women’s welfare and community programmes.
He emphasised that the progress of any community depends not only on government efforts but also on active public participation, cooperation and a shared commitment to improving the quality of life for all.
“As a community, we must continue working together to build a stronger, more prosperous and more inclusive future for coming generations,” he said.
The event concluded with participants joining in the preparation and wrapping of traditional rice dumplings.
