SIBU: The Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF) 2026 will be held here over ten days from Sept 3.
Co-organsing chairperson Michelle Law the extravaganza will be staged at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phases 1 and 2, bearing the theme “Echoes of Borneo” said.
“If last year we celebrated the vibrancy of Borneo’s music, culture and people, this year’s theme reflects the stories, traditions and heritage that continue to resonate across generations,” she said.
Law made these remarks at a press conference here Wednesday along fellow organising chairperson Norizan Sanyut.
BCF 2026 will feature a vibrant line-up of cultural performances, entertainment, community activities, food experiences and interactive programmes throughout the festival.
It will bring together local, national and international performers to celebrate the rich diversity, friendship and cultural exchange shared among communities across Borneo and beyond.
This year’s international cultural programme will feature troupes from China, including Ningde City, Gutian County, Fuding City and Putian City; Jakarta, Indonesia; and Kuala Belait, Brunei.
The festival will also showcase cultural groups from Sabah, including Tompuvan and Kumpulan Budayawan, as well as the Budakapi Movement fire show team from Peninsular Malaysia.
The official mascot of BCF 2026 remains the clouded leopard, locally known as Engkuli among the Dayak community.
“Since BCF 2025, the Engkulis, represented by a male and female pair, have symbolised Borneo’s diversity and togetherness. For BCF 2026, they return in new costumes that draw visual inspiration from the playful prehistoric aesthetic associated with Barney Rubble in The Flintstones, featuring a rustic, Stone Age-inspired look while maintaining BCF’s own identity and the ‘Echoes of Borneo’ theme.
“The new costumes give the Engkuli duo a more fun and distinctive identity while keeping the mascots instantly recognisable and creating an affectionate connection with BCF audiences,” she said.
Law said the highlight of this year’s BCF would be an exciting attempt to set a Malaysia Book of Records title for the Most Participants in a ‘Kampua’ Tossing Attempt, bringing together thousands of participants to celebrate one of Sibu’s most iconic local foods.
“Kampua is more than just a dish — it is part of Sibu’s identity and heritage. This record attempt aims to showcase our local culture in a fun, meaningful and uniquely Sibu way, while bringing people from all walks of life together for a common goal.
“Participants will take part in a synchronised kampua tossing moment, creating an incredible visual spectacle and a memorable experience for everyone involved. The successful attempt will be documented and submitted for official recognition by the Malaysia Book of Records,” she added.
The closing of BCF 2026 on Sept 12 will feature a fully customised pyro-musical fireworks display, specially designed for the festival and synchronised to music, creating a spectacular visual highlight for audiences.
Following the fireworks, the festival will close with a special performance by talented Sarawakian live DJ and multi-instrumentalist Belle Sisoski, known for blending traditional Sarawakian and indigenous influences with contemporary sounds.
Law said all BCF stalls would start operating from Sept 3.
