KUCHING, April 6: The 36th Annual Irau Aco Lun Bawang (Lun Bawang Festival) is scheduled to be held in Lawas from June 1 to 3.
The colourful festival organised by the Lun Bawang Association of Sarawak celebrates the Lun Bawang community’s rich culture and heritage, and is expected to continue the success of its previous year and attract more participants and visitors.
According to Lun Bawang Association of Sarawak president Dolphina Balang, Irau Aco Lun Bawang has become an iconic event in Lawas, not only celebrated by the Lun Bawang but also by the local communities throughout the northern region.
“This year, we are looking to continue the good efforts of inviting our fellow tribesmen from Brunei, Sabah and Kalimantan (Indonesia) in making this year a resounding success,” she said in a statement today.
She said at least 3,000 participants are expected to to attend to the festival’s opening ceremony, cultural nights, arts and cultural workshops, including various cultural programmes and sporting activities aimed at inculcating unity amongst the Lun Bawang community and invited natives of Sarawak and Sabah.
Meanwhile, Irau Aco Lun Bawan 2023 organising chairman, Jude Benjamin Lisa said expectations are higher this year after the success of last year’s festival.
“We are welcoming strategic sponsors and partners to execute and ensure all the activities planned will take place.
“The association along with the organising committee will also expand into a digital and social savvy approach to attract a younger audience,” he said.
Supported by the Sarawak Tourism Board, Limbang Resident Office, Lawas District Office and Limbang Tourism Task Force Group, Irau Aco Lun Bawang 2023 will be themed ‘Culture Inspires Unity’.
Highlights for this year’s edition are the art and cultural workshops showcasing traditional music, Lun Bawang motives, beading and traditional attire making which is essential in the quest for culture preservation and legacy, and the Ruran Ulung and Padan Liu Burung pageant.
Enrollment to participate is now open to those of Lun Bawang descent. Those interested are welcome to register via the ‘Ruran Ulung & Padan Liu Burung‘ Facebook page by April 30.
For more information, follow Irau Aco Lun Bawang on Facebook and Instagram. For sponsorship and partnership inquiry, contact Jude Benjamin at 017 877 3871. — DayakDaily
