By Jacob Achoi
BAU, April 30: The Redeems Centre in Singai will host the Bau Cultural & Tourism Festival 2026 on May 8 and 9.
Held for the first time in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the event is expected to attract more than 5,000 visitors.
Deputy Minister of Transport (Riverine and Marine), Datuk Henry Harry Jinep, in announcing the event, said the festival will showcase the various Bidayuh ethnic groups in Bau, while also involving the Malay and Chinese communities.
“For the event, which is a pre-Gawai celebration, we will have an open house featuring Bidayuh sub-ethnic groups in Bau — Jagoi, Singai, Krokong and Tringgus, Bratak, Serumbu, and Salako Rara — serving their respective local delicacies.
“Besides that, the Malay and Chinese communities will also serve their authentic dishes,” said the Tasik Biru assemblyman at a press conference at the Bau District Council today.
Henry added that the festival aims to introduce and preserve the identity of the Bidayuh community in Bau for future generations, while also creating economic opportunities for locals.
He said several local artistes will be performing at the event, including Baby Shima, Claudia Geres, as well as a number of bands.
Admission to the festival, which will be officiated by Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, on May 9, is free.
Also present at the press conference were Bau District officer Eddy Nayoi and Council secretary Ong Chin Ping. — DayakDaily
