Today, Sarawak celebrates its journey to self-rule – but a new kind of freedom is stirring. In his bold new comic, S. Mark introduces Rhemaung Berih, a hero who reawakens pride in Sarawak’s roots, empowers local communities, and carries Borneo’s roar to the world.
‘Rhemaung Berih’ and the spirit of freedom
ON July 22, Sarawak marks the day it reclaimed its voice. But this Sarawak Day, another voice emerges – not from a political platform, but from the pages of a bold new comic.
‘Rhemaung Berih: The Origin’ tells the story of a Dayak warrior cast out from his tribe after a forbidden union between rival factions. Haunted by exile yet bound to a greater calling, Rhemaung is forced to rise beyond his own pain to protect not only his people, but an entire legacy.
For creator and writer S. Mark – a Sarawakian who now resides in Kuala Lumpur – this is more than a superhero tale. It’s a cultural awakening.
“It’s not just legend. It’s about freeing your mind and reclaiming your spirit. ‘Rhemaung Berih’ brings back the soul of who we are,” he told Sarawak Tribune in an exclusive interview.
Reclaiming Sarawak’s soul
Asked what kind of pride some have lost sight of, Mark does not hesitate.

“Sarawak’s pride has always been deeply rooted in our indigenous heritage, community values, and natural wealth.
“But over the years – with modernisation, digital alienation, and federal oversight – many young Sarawakians have lost connection with our true tribal identity, our warrior spirit, and the indigenous worldview that once defined us.
“We’ve become proud of development and infrastructure, which we should, but we’ve also forgotten the soul of who we are.
“‘Rhemaung Berih’ brings that soul back. It reawakens our connection to ancestral strength, tribal leadership, and the land itself,” he explained.
For many, Sarawak Day is just another public holiday. Therefore, Mark hopes that ‘Rhemaung Berih’ can reconnect younger Sarawakians to its deeper meaning by weaving in values that resonate with the very foundation of Sarawak’s identity.
Through the story, readers are reminded of the importance of protecting the environment, just as their ancestors once did.
It celebrates the unity and pride of Sarawak’s diverse culture, and it tells stories of local heroes who fought for justice and identity.
“It’s more than a story. It’s a reminder of who we are and what we must protect,” he said.
This naturally leads to a bigger question: what makes Sarawakian identity truly unique compared to the rest of Malaysia?
A voice that’s truly ours
Mark believes that the Sarawakian identity is unlike any other in Malaysia.
“It’s unique because of its deep tribal roots, harmony among many ethnic groups, strong connection to the land, and pride in self-governance.
“That tribal strength and pride are reflected in Rhemaung’s journey, his traditions, and his struggles. He’s not just a hero – he’s the embodiment of what makes Sarawak different,” shared the 43-year-old.

By choosing to launch the comic on July 22, Mark wanted to align ‘Rhemaung Berih’ with the meaning of the day.
“Sarawak Day marks our strength, resilience, and journey toward self-rule – and it’s time we take pride in our own hard work and heritage.
“Through ‘Rhemaung Berih’, I hope to remind people of our rich past, celebrate who we are today, and inspire the next generation to shape a bold future.
“This launch is not just about a story – it’s about owning our identity. Sarawak Day is the perfect moment to say: our stories matter, and our time is now,” he explained.
Not just a comic
Beyond the panels and pages, ‘Rhemaung Berih’ is part of a larger cultural mission.
Mark sees it as a movement to empower local communities, especially the younger generation, through what he calls “stewardship leadership”.
This empowerment, he explains, begins with honouring Sarawak’s heroes and teaching young people to appreciate the forefathers who fought for the land and its freedom.
It continues with protecting heritage by encouraging pride in culture, traditions, and the environment. It also means inspiring young leaders to take responsibility, care for their communities, and carry the legacy forward.
And it doesn’t stop there – Mark and his team are working with schools, artists, and villages to bring the story and its values to life.
“It’s about guiding the new generation to respect the past and protect the future,” he said.
But empowerment is not just about values. It is also about giving young talents a platform to dream beyond limits.
Mark also believes ‘Rhemaung Berih’ can inspire young Sarawakians who may feel that there’s no future in arts.
“This comic shows that our own stories have value – not just locally, but globally. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Webtoons allow young talents to share their art with the world instantly.
“There are no more boundaries – you can be in Sarawak and still reach an international audience,” the Bidayuh-Iban native added.

He hopes ‘Rhemaung Berih’ will give local artists and writers a hero they can relate to, sparking new creative works such as fan art, music, stories, or even fashion inspired by the universe of the comic.
By blending local pride with global styles, the story connects with wider audiences and gives young Sarawakians the confidence to share their culture with the world.
“It goes beyond art – it’s about believing your story matters, and the world is ready to listen,” he said.
Heroes for the future
Does Sarawak need more heroes like ‘Rhemaung Berih‘?
“Yes. They build pride in our culture and identity. They inspire youth to dream big and lead. They create real jobs in art, music, and tourism. And they help Sarawak share its stories with the world,” he emphasised.
For him, this is about more than entertainment. It’s cultural self-rule.
“While Sarawak Day marks political self-rule, cultural self-rule means the newer generation proudly tells their own history, heroes, and heritage through their own voice.
“We can show that Sarawak doesn’t need to rely on outside narratives – we have rich stories worth telling. It empowers youth to shape how Sarawak is seen, both at home and globally,” he added.
Borneo’s roar
So, what does Mark want readers to feel when they pick up ‘Rhemaung Berih’ this Sarawak Day?
“I want them to feel a deep sense of pride in being Sarawakian. To see that we have so much talent, culture, and art.
“At the same time, we can stay true to who we are – honouring our roots, traditions, and harmony among our diverse communities.
“Being Sarawakian means we can be global and grounded at the same time. ‘Rhemaung Berih’ is a reminder that our identity is powerful, beautiful, and ready to be seen,” he explained.
And as for his now-famous words – “Borneo has its own roar. The world needs to hear it” – Mark’s meaning is clear.
“Sarawak has powerful stories, voices, and heritage that deserve global attention.
“Through ‘Rhemaung Berih’, I hope this roar inspires the new generation to carry the torch forward – to highlight Sarawak’s rich history, folklore, and culture to the international stage.

“It’s not just about being seen, but about being respected for our depth, diversity, and spirit. This roar is a call for cultural confidence, led by our youth, grounded in our roots,” he shared.
This Sarawak Day, as flags are raised and history remembered, a new kind of hero takes his first step – not from the pages of history books, but from the imagination of Sarawak’s own people.
And perhaps, through ‘Rhemaung Berih’, Sarawak’s next chapter is just beginning.
For now, ‘Rhemaung Berih’ is available for online purchase and digital viewing through its official Facebook page. In the near future, it will also be available in tourism-related outlets, including major airport retail stores and other key locations.