SIBU: The Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF) 2025 themed ‘The Rhythm of Borneo’ will run from Jul 3 to 12 with greater emphasis on local culture.
Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) deputy chairman Mohammed Abdullah Izkandar Datuk Roseley said instead of the usual ethnic-themed arches, this year, there will be a mini cultural village.
“It offers visitors a unique, immersive experience of Sarawak’s diverse cultures, architecture, and way of life, particularly those of ethnic communities in and around Sibu,” he told a press conference at the SMC meeting room here today.
Izkandar, who is also the organising chairman for BCF, added that the theme represents the rich harmony of culture, nature, and the unique way of life of the people of Borneo.
“It reflects three core elements: traditional culture and music, the rhythm of nature and identity, and tourism.
“BCF 2025 will showcase diverse cultural performances from the Dayak, Malay, Melanau, Chinese, Lun Bawang communities, and more,” he said.
Izkandar also added that the festival will feature special guest performers from Indonesia and India, highlighting their vibrant cultural heritage.
He also said BCF’s official mascot from last year, Engkuli (Clouded Leopard), will be making a comeback with the addition of a female version.
“The recent viral post of Engkuli shows that public awareness on the species is improving. We are happy to promote this endangered wildlife for the second year, especially as the species is endemic to Borneo,” he said.
