By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, May 28: The 20th edition of the highly anticipated Pesta Babulang and Buffalo Race 2025 will take place in Batu Danau, Limbang from July 4 to 7, with the main celebration on July 5 to be graced by the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
According to a TVS news report, this year’s festival, organised by the Sarawak Bisaya Association, also marks the 54th anniversary of the association’s founding, making the event even more meaningful for the Bisaya community.
“The presence of the Premier is a great honour to our community and reflects his continued support for the preservation of Bisaya cultural heritage,” the association said in a statement yesterday (May 27).
Celebrated as the largest cultural event organised by the Bisaya community, the festival showcases the richness of their traditions, values, and unity.
Among the highlights of the event are the Ratu Agak Babulang and Panglima Babulang pageants—competitions that celebrate the grace and leadership of Bisaya youth—as well as the popular buffalo race that draws crowds annually.
Other attractions include the decorative raft competition (bangkar), traditional food fairs, handicraft exhibitions, cultural contests, and traditional games, offering visitors a vibrant and immersive cultural experience.
The association added that the festival not only serves to uplift Bisaya culture but also promotes racial harmony, tourism, and local economic growth in the Limbang Division.
The public is warmly invited to attend and take part in the colourful festivities while discovering the unique heritage and enduring legacy of the Bisaya people. — DayakDaily
