KUCHING: Tematu EthnoFest 2025, a celebration of Sarawak’s rich cultural diversity, is set to light up Kampung Tematu on June 27 and 28, with a vibrant array of traditional performances, competitions, and community activities.
Formerly known as Karnival Gawai Tematu and Bitanding Dayung Gawea Tematu, the rebranded Tematu EthnoFest celebrates its 10th anniversary with a renewed focus on inclusivity and cultural continuity, aiming to foster community pride while embracing broader participation from Sarawak’s multiethnic society.
The two-day programme kicks off on June 27 (Friday), featuring daytime events such as a Tree Grafting Demonstration by the Department of Agriculture, a Pulut Rice Wine Competition, and the Kuduas Ponas contest, which showcases the traditional skills and ingenuity of the local community.
In the evening, the main stage will come alive with performances and competitions, including the Onak Dayung Gawea Tematu 2025, Sindok Gawea Tematu 2025, and a Talent and Contemporary Dress Competition involving the finalists of Dayung Gawea Tematu 2025 (DGT25).
The evening ceremony, officiated by Batu Kitang Assemblyman, Datuk Lo Khere Chiang, will underscore the event’s official recognition and community significance, and will also be graced by the presence of Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom and Datuk Snowdan Donald Lawan, representing the state’s food and tourism ministries respectively.
On June 28 (Saturday), the festival continues with activities tailored for families and all age groups.
Some of the highlights include a blood donation campaign, free health and dental check-ups, exhibitions by government agencies and NGOs, and an Aerodance session.
There will also be a children’s telematch, a giant volleyball competition, and karaoke contests for both adults and children, along with a fun Maggi noodle-eating contest, which adds a playful culinary twist to the day’s programme.
The Tematu EthnoFest 2025 will spotlight three major competitions, Dayung Gawea Tematu (DGT25), Sindok Gawea Tematu (SGT25), and Onak Dayung Gawea Tematu (ODGT25), featuring talented finalists from across Sarawak.
The DGT25, SGT25, and ODGT25 competitions bring together 24 contestants from across Kuching, Bau, Serian, Singai, Padawan, Penrissen, Lundu, Siburan and Tematu, showcasing a vibrant blend of youth talent and cultural pride from diverse communities.
The grand finale on Saturday night will feature the Final Round of Dayung Gawea Tematu 2025, accompanied by cultural performances from various ethnic groups.