BELAGA: The Kenyah community is urged to strengthen unity and maintain the spirit of cooperation continuously to ensure shared progress and development in the state.
Baram MP Datuk Anyie Ngau recapped that unity remains a key foundation in strengthening the position and development of the Kenyah community in Sarawak, in line with the objectives behind the establishment of the Persatuan Kebangsaan Kenyah Sarawak (PKKS).
“With strong unity and cooperation, we are able to achieve progress and success like other communities,” he said when officiating at the closing ceremony of the 2026 Pesta Ladong Bio Lepa Ajau at Dewan Uma Kulit, Sungai Asap, recently.
The festival, organised by PKKS Sungai Asap Belaga branch, continues to serve as an important platform for fostering unity while preserving the cultural heritage of the Kenyah community in the Sungai Asap area.
Now in its 14th edition, the annual festival is organised on a rotational basis among Kenyah longhouses in Belaga District, with Uma Kulit Sungai Asap selected as host for this year’s event.
Over the two-day celebration, visitors were treated to various activities including motivational programmes, traditional games, cultural performances and heritage art competitions showcasing Kenyah traditions and customs.
The event also aims to express gratitude for the year’s harvest and blessings while promoting the preservation of Orang Ulu cultural identity, particularly among the younger generation.
The closing ceremony featured performances such as Tebengang Lung Lebu’ Kulit traditional music, the Unity Dance, and a special appearance by the Jatun Julut champion, alongside a lucky draw session.
The highlight of the night was the Balan Nyanting and Bungan Lisu competition, which drew enthusiastic participation from festivalgoers.
As a symbolic gesture marking the end of the celebration, Anyie and invited guests rolled up a rattan mat to officially close the festival.
Meanwhile, Pemanca Tony Kulleh announced that Uma Kelap, Sungai Asap, will host the 15th edition of the Pesta Ladong Bio Lepa Ajau next year.
