BAU: The Bau Cultural and Tourism Festival 2026 is set to spotlight Bidayuh heritage while boosting tourism and community unity in the district.
Scheduled for May 8 and 9 at the REDEEMS Centre in Singai, the two-day event underscores Bau’s growing role as a cultural tourism hub, said Deputy Minister for Transport (Riverine and Marine), Datuk Henry Harry Jinep.
Organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) in collaboration with local agencies and community groups, the festival reflects a collective effort to preserve and promote the rich traditions of the Bidayuh people while fostering inclusive participation across communities.
Henry, who is also Tasik Biru assemblyman, highlighted that the festival is more than a celebratory event; it is a strategic platform to introduce Bau’s unique cultural identity, customs and history to a wider audience, positioning the district as an attractive destination for both domestic and international tourists.
“The Bidayuh community in Bau is diverse, comprising groups such as Bratak, Jagoi, Singai, Serembu and Krokong/Tringus, each with its own distinct heritage.
“This festival allows us to showcase that diversity in a meaningful and engaging way,” he told a press conference at Bau District Office here today.
Beyond cultural preservation, the festival is expected to generate tangible economic benefits.
By drawing an estimated 3,000 to 5,000 visitors, it will stimulate demand for accommodation, food services and transportation, providing income opportunities for local entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Visitors can look forward to a vibrant programme featuring open houses, traditional performances, cultural exhibitions, as well as sales of local handicrafts and food.
The event will also be enlivened by appearances from popular performers including Baby Shima, At Adau and Depha Masterpiece, among others.
A key highlight of the festival is its emphasis on the spirit of gotong-royong, or “kerja samah” in the Bidayuh language, a longstanding cultural practice centred on mutual cooperation and communal solidarity.
This concept is embedded in the organisation and execution of the festival, reinforcing bonds among residents while nurturing a shared sense of identity.
Importantly, the festival extends beyond the Bidayuh community.
Participation from Chinese, Malay and Salako Rara groups through open houses reflects Bau’s multicultural fabric and commitment to unity.
With free admission and a packed itinerary running from afternoon to midnight on both days, the Bau Cultural and Tourism Festival 2026 is poised to become a key pre-Gawai event this year, celebrating heritage while driving sustainable local development.
Bau District Officer Eddy Nayoi, Bau District Council Secretary Ong Chin Ping, Bau Chinese Pemanca Bong Jong Long, Bidayuh Jagoi Penghulu Sumy Lidey and event organising chairperson Ann Micahel were also present.
