By: Raihanah Reduan
KUCHING: Traditional Melanau cuisine took centre stage at the Pesta Mini Makanan Tradisi Melanau today (Apr 5), as efforts intensified to promote indigenous heritage and strengthen cultural tourism in Sarawak.
Organised by Persatuan eDOK (Dalat, Oya, Kut) Kuching in collaboration with the Kuching Melanau Association (PMK), the mini food festival themed Cita Rasa Melanau: Legasi Dalat, Oya & Kut introduced members of the public to distinctive Melanau dishes at Seven On Seven Cafe, Matang.
The programme was officiated by Minister of Women, Early Childhood and Community Well-being Development Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, who emphasised the importance of preserving traditional food as part of ethnic identity.
“Each ethnic group possesses its own distinct identity, through language and also cuisine. Melanau traditional food reflects our culture and has become a symbol of heritage that should be preserved and passed down,” she said.
Fatimah noted that Melanau cuisine also offers various health benefits, encouraging greater appreciation of its nutritional value.
“Sago contains polyphenols known for their anti-ageing properties.
“With dishes such as Linut, when paired with a variety of condiments, a complete Melanau meal contributes to a balanced and nutritious diet,” she added.
She also highlighted Dalat’s status as one of the world’s largest producers of high-quality sago flour and encouraged Persatuan eDOK to seek support from the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts to further expand similar initiatives in line with efforts to promote cultural tourism.
Meanwhile, Persatuan eDOK president Datuk Malike Mahli said community response to the programme exceeded expectations, with nearly all food items sold out during the event.
“Almost all products displayed were sold out, including linut, umai, tumpik and dried fish,” he said, adding that the association is preparing to organise a larger festival in collaboration with PMK in the future.
The programme also attracted 15 students from Politeknik Kuching Sarawak, providing them with the opportunity to learn more about Melanau culinary traditions and cultural heritage.
