By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, July 25: Baram Regatta is more than a showcase of traditional boat racing—it is a 126-year-old symbol of peace born from a historic agreement among Baram’s diverse communities to end inter-tribal conflict.
Deputy Minister for Public Health, Housing and Local Government I (Public Health and Housing) Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil, who is the organising chairman for Baram Regatta 2026, said the event, which was first held in 1899, continues to embody the values of peace, unity and harmony that inspired its establishment more than a century ago.
“Baram Regatta was born when the communities of Baram agreed to end warfare among themselves in pursuit of peace,” he said when speaking at the official opening of Baram Regatta 2026 today, broadcast live by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) on Facebook.
Reflecting that legacy, Dr Penguang said this year’s theme has been changed from “Progress, Peace and Unity” to “Peace, Unity and Progress”, placing peace at the forefront as the foundation for everything else.
He said without peace, it would be impossible to achieve any meaningful progress, particularly in a multicultural society such as Baram.
“We must practise a high level of tolerance, do our best to foster social inclusivity, and reject all forms of provocation and the spread of narrow political ideologies that often exploit religion and race to gain political support during election periods,” he stressed.
According to Dr Penguang, once peace is secured, communities can move forward together in unity before pursuing progress through infrastructure development, economic prosperity and environmental sustainability.
He stressed that Baram Regatta is not merely a festival or a boat race but a manifestation of the aspirations of the people of Baram and a symbol of unity and harmonious coexistence among its many ethnic communities.
Earlier, Penguang once again apologised for the cancellation of Baram Regatta 2025, which was postponed following the devastating floods that struck Baram in September last year.
He said the floods affected more than 60 villages and longhouses across the district, including Marudi town and the regatta venue, making the postponement an unavoidable decision despite criticism from some quarters.
“I took full responsibility for that decision, in the name of humanity and the well-being of the people of Baram,” he said.
Despite the setback, Penguang said the organising committee remained committed to making this year’s edition a memorable celebration by expanding its programme of activities.
Baram Regatta 2026 has attracted 225 entries across various racing categories, including 21 powerboat events involving 64 teams and 162 boats, as well as traditional paddling races featuring 23 teams and 63 boats.
Participants have travelled not only from Baram but also from Brunei Darussalam and other parts of Sarawak, including Lawas, Sibuti, Mukah, Dalat, Belaga and Miri.
The regatta also features several major challenge trophies, including the Premier of Sarawak Cup, Petra Energy Berhad Cup, Etnik Gemilang Yayasan Perpaduan Cup, Unity Baram Regatta Cup and Raja Batang Baram Regatta Cup.
Beyond the races, the four-day celebration from July 23 to 26 includes a decorated boat parade showcasing Baram’s ethnic diversity, cultural performances, the Ratu Baram Regatta beauty pageant, the Bintang Baram Regatta singing competition and a sales fair involving 147 stalls. — DayakDaily
