By DayakDaily Team
BINTULU, December 8: Sungai Asap in Belaga has become Sarawak’s latest landmark of pride with the unveiling of the world’s largest Sape sculpture, a powerful symbol of the cultural heritage of the Orang Ulu community.
Recognised by the Malaysian Book of Records and Elite World Records, as highlighted by the Asean Culture and History Facebook page, this iconic structure celebrates the legacy of an instrument deeply embedded in Sarawak’s cultural fabric.
The Sape, an instrument native to the indigenous Orang Ulu tribes, is renowned for its intricate wooden carvings and its serene, melodious sound.
Traditionally crafted with two to four strings made from gut or nylon, the Sape’ is as much a visual masterpiece as it is a musical one. It is adorned with intricate designs reflecting the natural world and spiritual motifs of the Orang Ulu people.
Beyond its artistic beauty, the Sape’ serves as a vital cultural cornerstone. Historically, it has been played during significant ceremonies, celebrations, and rituals, serving as a vessel to convey stories, spiritual beliefs, and communal values through its distinctive melodic patterns.
Over time, the Sape’s role has expanded beyond its traditional context. It has adapted to modern influences, seamlessly blending with contemporary genres like pop, jazz, and fusion, elevating its status on the global stage.
The hauntingly beautiful sounds of the Sape’ have resonated at international cultural festivals and world music events, introducing audiences worldwide to the rich heritage of Sarawak.
This towering Sape’ sculpture is more than a visual attraction—it embodies the identity, spirit, and resilience of the Orang Ulu community.
This remarkable sculpture will serve as a major tourist attraction in Sungai Asap, Belaga, firmly placing Sarawak on the map as a State that values, preserves, and shares its rich cultural diversity with the world.
Sarawak’s pride in the Sape’ is now etched in history, both as a cultural treasure and as a testament to the enduring legacy of its indigenous communities. — DayakDaily
