KUCHING: The rich cultural heritage of Sarawak’s Orang Ulu community took centre stage with the official launch of the mini album ‘Puduu’ Anaak’ at a city mall today.
‘Puduu’ Anaak’, translated as ‘Sleeping Child’ in the Orang Ulu language, features traditional songs as a tribute to cultural preservation.
The project, spearheaded by Sherlyn Management Company (SMC) under the leadership of Sherlynna Parveen, was produced in collaboration with Dorinna Gibson and supported by the Ministry of Communications through MyCreative Ventures, under the Creative Content Fund for the music industry.
Featuring acclaimed Sarawakian vocalist, Elizabeth Bungan, as the lead artist, the album comprises four traditional Orang Ulu songs namely ‘Puduu’ Anaak’, ‘Lan E’, ‘Hip Balip’ and ‘Baling Tinggang’, alongside an original track titled ‘One Journey’.
When met at the launching, Elizabeth said the mini album provides a platform for the public to appreciate the beauty of Orang Ulu culture through music, showcasing traditional instruments while maintaining the authenticity of the lyrics.
“It is a cultural treasure for future generations,” she said.
Meanwhile, Sherlynna said Orang Ulu lullabies are rarely sung now, which prompted the production of the album.
“Actually ‘Puduu’ Anaak’ is usually sung by older generations in the longhouses, but today, we hardly hear it and if we do, it is very rare.
“That’s why we also come out with the music video, to share with everyone the beauty of our lullabies,” she said.
She further explained in the music video, Elizabeth is seen calming her baby, which makes her recall memories of her mother and a lullaby that has almost been forgotten.
“Eventually, she remembers the lyrics and sings them to her son,” she said.
She added that they are among the first from the Orang Ulu community to revive the lullaby.
Meanwhile, the music video for the title track ‘Puduu’ Anaak’ tells the emotional story of a mother soothing her child to sleep, interwoven with memories of her own mother, highlighting the fading tradition of lullabies.
The second video, ‘One Journey’, follows the exploration of a child discovering traditional Orang Ulu instruments and cultural identity, serving as an introduction to a vanishing legacy.
Earlier, the launch event featured live performances by Elizabeth and young musicians from Bungan Creative, a contemporary dance presentation by Sulendang Tari, as well as the premiere of both music videos, a photo session and meet-and-greet opportunities with the performers.
‘Puduu’ Anaak’, which was also launched on YouTube and other digital streaming platform, is positioned not only as a musical release but also a cultural initiative aimed at inspiring younger generations to engage with their indigenous roots.
