BAU: A proposal to develop REDEEMS’ RM3.5 million Warisan Longhouse has received government backing, with Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah pledging to raise the project with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Speaking on behalf of the Premier at the opening of the 18th Gawai Carnival REDEEMS 2026 and Battle of the Band here last night (July 18), Abdul Karim described the proposed heritage hub as an important initiative to preserve and promote Bidayuh culture.
“I cannot announce it on behalf of the Premier today, but I will definitely brief him on the need for that centre because this is one place where we can bring all the Bidayuh artefacts together,” he said.
Earlier, REDEEMS president Datuk Peter Nansian Ngusie said the organisation had submitted a request to the Sarawak government for RM3.5 million to complete the Warisan Longhouse project.
He said the proposed heritage hub would house an information centre, souvenir shop, Bidayuh gallery, showhouse unit, workshop and exhibition spaces, as well as an underground car park with a capacity for 50 vehicles.
“We have written to the Premier of Sarawak for the fund to complete this project and we sincerely hope that he can approve it so that we can support the development of our state arts, craft and culture, and also the tourism industry of Sarawak,” he said.
Nansian said REDEEMS is also proposing the construction of a tar sealed car park along the main road fronting the REDEEMS Centre, stretching from Potik Road Junction to Kampung Apar Road Junction.
He said the parking area would accommodate hundreds of vehicles, be equipped with street lighting, and benefit visitors to the centre, SMK Singai, the District Education Office and nearby villages along the Apar-Segong Road.
Looking ahead, he said REDEEMS hopes to host the International Tribal Festival (ITF) once the Warisan Longhouse and car park projects are completed, with the aim of positioning the centre as a cultural tourism destination.
Abdul Karim said the proposed Warisan Longhouse would serve as more than a physical structure, but as a centre for preserving and promoting Bidayuh heritage while complementing Sarawak’s broader efforts to safeguard the cultures of all ethnic communities.
Abdul Karim said Sarawak’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths, with the state home to 34 ethnic groups, each with its own language, customs and traditions that deserve equal recognition.
“Every ethnicity, no matter how small, deserves a place.
“Every ethnic group has something unique to contribute and it is our responsibility to preserve that heritage for future generations,” he said.
He said this philosophy is reflected in the name Borneo Cultures Museum, where the plural “Cultures” recognises the many communities that have shaped Borneo’s identity rather than presenting them as a single culture.
According to Abdul Karim, preserving heritage extends beyond displaying artefacts and includes protecting languages, performing arts, music, dance, traditional knowledge and local cuisine to ensure they remain relevant for future generations.
He added that community-driven initiatives such as the proposed Warisan Longhouse complement the state’s efforts to preserve indigenous heritage while creating opportunities for education, cultural exchange and tourism development.
