MUKAH: The traditional Melanau ceremony here, known as Kaul Serahang Kakan, was celebrated with great festivity yesterday morning.
Starting as early as 7:00 am, villagers gathered at the jetty before boarding boats to journey along the Tellian River towards the Kaul Serahang Kakan site at Kala Dana Beach.
Traditional Melanau music was played throughout the river journey.
Upon arrival at the site, the ceremony was led by ‘Bapa Kaul’, Edmund Salman Tuna.
Following the ritual, traditional Melanau dances and silat performances were showcased.
Guests were also treated to a communal feast as an expression of gratitude in conjunction with the celebration.
The event was attended by Federal Economy Deputy Minister cum Mukah Member of Parliament, Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib, as well as Tellian assemblyman, Royston Valentine.
Hanifah and Royston also presented prizes to the winners of the Decorated Boat Competition held in conjunction with Kaul Serahang Kakan 2025.
The decorated boat representing the Tellian Tradisi Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK) was crowned the overall winner, followed by Sapan Puloh in second place and Tellian Ulu JKKK in third.
In the small boat category, Morshidi Peri emerged as champion, with Azemil Bujang and Nani Elli claiming second and third places respectively.
Earlier, a total of 31 large and small boats took part in the procession along the Tellian River during the Kaul Serahang Kakan celebration.
This event, rich in cultural heritage and tradition, is an annual celebration of the Melanau community.
