MIRI: Miri is set to make a bid for the Malaysia Book of Records when 32 ethnic associations take part in a landmark cultural parade during the Taste of Borneo Cultural Carnival (TOBC) 4.0, which will be held from July 1 to 12 at the Boulevard Open Car Park.
The record attempt, under the category of the Most Ethnic Associations Participating in a Parade, is expected to be one of the highlights of the 12-day carnival celebrating the cultural diversity and heritage of Borneo.
The TOBC Parade on July 1 will bring together representatives from 32 ethnic associations, students from SMK Chung Hua Miri, SMK Merbau, SMK Pujut and Riam Road Secondary School, as well as an international cultural delegation from Yunnan Province, China.
Adding an international dimension to the event, the Yunnan delegation will showcase the cultural traditions of six ethnic communities, namely the Han, Yi, Hani, Zhuang, Wa and De’ang groups.
The carnival will continue on July 3 with Seni Budaya Tarian Borneo, featuring traditional dance performances from across the island.
The programme will also welcome cultural groups from Sabah, Brunei, Indonesia and Yunnan, reflecting the growing regional profile of the event.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who is also Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, is expected to attend.
The opening ceremony on July 4 will be officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
A key highlight of the ceremony will be the signing of a friendship agreement between the Taste of Borneo Cultural Carnival and the Society of Yunnan Nationalities, aimed at strengthening cultural collaboration and exchanges between Sarawak and Yunnan.
The event will also witness the signing of a Friendship City agreement between Miri City Council and the Lijiang Municipal People’s Government, marking another step towards enhancing cooperation in tourism, culture and people-to-people exchanges.
Since its inception, the Taste of Borneo Cultural Carnival has evolved into a major platform for showcasing Borneo’s rich cultural heritage while fostering international cultural partnerships.
Organisers believe this year’s edition will further reinforce Miri’s position as a gateway for cultural tourism and regional engagement.
