LUNDU: The Narakng Parade has become a significant platform for showcasing the cultural heritage of the Bidayuh Salako Rara community to the wider public.
According to Richi Richardson, Vice President of Kelab Jejak Warisan dan Khazanah Salako Rara, the parade, which moves from village to village, is a symbolic journey to seek blessings from the Creator, known as Jubata (ancestral deity), in hopes of receiving prosperity and good fortune.
It is also a way to restore soil fertility, so that agricultural activities such as rice farming, fruit cultivation, and the harvesting of natural resources may yield bountiful results.
“This is to ensure that our community is blessed with good fortune and successful harvests in the year to come,” he told Sarawak Tribune.
This year’s parade carried the theme ‘Narakng Ngrihatn Adat’ (Narakng Carries Tradition Forward) and was officiated by Opar Assemblyman, Billy Sujang.
The procession was led by a traditional ritual leader known as the ‘tukang Tarakng’, who began the ceremony at a sacred space called the Pabuisatn (Rumah Adat). The rituals included prayers for good health and spiritual well-being.
The parade commenced from several Rumah Adat: Kampung Biawak, Kampung Jangkar, Kampung Pasir Tengah, Kampung Semapu, Kampung Sebako, and Kampung Paon – and concluded at the Kampung Serayan Baru Community Hall.
Richi explained that traditionally, the Narakng Parade must begin early in the morning, around 6:00 am, and must come to a halt by midday.
“By noon, the procession must stop at the designated location and cannot proceed further.
“Why must it stop before evening? Because traditionally, we do not continue the ritual after midday.
“They start at dawn, and by noon they rest. If they wish to continue, it will resume at dawn the next day,” he said.
Upon reaching the community hall, a ritual known as ‘Ngantek’ was performed, during which rice was scattered as an offering while prayers were made to Jubata for blessings.
According to Richi, the event featured approximately 10 decorated vehicles and lorries, contributed by participating villages, adding vibrancy and colour to the celebration.
