MIRI: Kenyah cultural heritage should be preserved while being given new opportunities to reach wider audiences through technology, creative industries and community-based tourism, said Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department Datuk Gerawat Gala.
Speaking at the Cultural Night of Traditional Dance and Music in conjunction with the Sarawak Kenyah Cultural Festival (SKCF) 2026 at the FORUM Cultural Centre here on Monday (Aug 31) night, he said traditional dances and music were more than entertainment, carrying the community’s history, values and identity.
Gerawat, whose portfolio covers Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring, urged young Kenyah people to use social media, film, music and other digital platforms to showcase their culture to audiences beyond Sarawak.
He said cultural heritage also had potential to contribute to the creative economy and community-based tourism through handicrafts, traditional food, performing arts, homestays and authentic cultural experiences.
However, such development must ensure that the communities safeguarding the heritage benefited from it, he said.
Gerawat urged young Kenyah people to take pride in their roots while pursuing their ambitions.
“Pursue your dreams in whatever field you choose, but never forget your roots, history and origins,” he said.
He expressed hope that SKCF would grow beyond an annual festival into a sustained cultural movement, further positioning Miri as a platform for culture, the arts and creative industries in Sarawak.
He also congratulated the Persatuan Kebangsaan Kenyah Sarawak (PKKS), organisers, cultural practitioners, performers and volunteers for making the festival a success.
