By Dayangku Hidayatul
KUCHING, May 14: An ancient Kayan legend of a demi-god warrior known as the “Hercules of the Keliman River” will take centre stage as Sarawak is transformed into a vibrant cultural hub with the return of the Sarawak Harvest and Folklore Festival (SHFF) 2026 at the Sarawak Cultural Village on May 23 and 24, with 3,875 tickets already sold ahead of the highly anticipated celebration of heritage, identity and community.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the festival is among the key initiatives under his ministry in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia to further position Sarawak as a premier cultural tourism destination.
“With the theme ‘Celebrating Heritage, Inspiring Future’, the festival honours the traditions of our ancestors while encouraging the younger generation to carry forward Sarawak’s cultural identity,” he said at a press conference at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly Complex’s Media Room today.
He said SHFF 2026 also places strong emphasis on inclusivity by providing a platform for local craftspeople, ethnic food producers and young talents to showcase their creativity, while contributing to the preservation of Sarawak’s living heritage.
“SHFF is more than just an event. It is a celebration of unity, culture and the future. It brings together local communities, students, cultural enthusiasts and creative talents from across Sarawak,” he added, noting that such participation strengthens intergenerational bonds in preserving the State’s diverse heritage.
At the heart of the festival is the musical “Belawan Burieng – The Hercules of the Keliman River”, based on an ancient Kayan legend passed down through generations. The story follows Belawan Burieng, a legendary warrior believed to be half-human and half-deity, son of Belarik Ubong, the God of Thunder and Sky.
Renowned for his extraordinary strength, bravery and wisdom, Belawan Burieng’s fame spread across villages, and he was said to have 11 wives from different communities. However, his success sparked jealousy in a young warrior, Lidem Avang Kayo, who abducted his wives and challenged him using a magical indestructible shield.
Anticipating the confrontation, Belawan Burieng sought divine assistance from his father and engaged in a fierce battle, ultimately defeating his rival when heavenly fire melted Lidem Avang Kayo’s enchanted armour.
News of the defeat reached Bua Benyi, Belawan Burieng’s former wife, who possessed mystical powers to revive the dead. With divine approval, she restored Lidem Avang Kayo and his followers to life. Realising their wrongdoing, they reconciled with Belawan Burieng, restoring unity within the community.
The legend, which symbolises unity, forgiveness and divine strength, serves as a timeless reminder of harmony and peace for future generations.
The festival programme will feature a wide range of cultural showcases, including the “Belawan Burieng – The Hercules of the Keliman River” drama musical, alongside Culturalvaganza performances held twice daily at 11am and 3.30pm at the theatre. Additional cultural shows will run at 11.30am and 4pm at the Open Lawn.
Visitors can also explore craft bazaars and food stalls offering a diverse range of ethnic cuisines throughout the two-day event.
To encourage wider participation, ticket prices have been set at RM20 for adults and RM10 for children for daytime entry (9am–6pm), while evening performances (6pm–11pm) are priced at RM50 for adults and RM30 for children.
Abdul Karim said the pricing is designed to keep the festival accessible, with tickets available via the official website at www.sarawakharvestfestival.com.my.
To ease traffic flow, shuttle services will operate from the Sports Village parking area starting 9am, priced at RM5 per adult and RM3 per child per trip. A dedicated pick-up point will also be available at the Damai Golf & Country Club checkpoint at a flat rate of RM5 per person. — DayakDaily
