By DayakDaily Team
SIBU, July 4: The Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) is setting its sights on the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) by showcasing the itut, a towering 60-foot traditional Melanau swing, as a highlight of this year’s Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF) at Phase 1 Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang.
In a TVS news report, SMC chairman Clarence Ting expressed hope that the number of visitors to the attraction will at least double last year’s turnout to help secure a spot in the national record book.
“Last year, we recorded approximately 1,100 visitors, according to councillor Abang Carrol Abang Dris, who is also the chairman of the Melanau Welfare Association of Kampung Nangka and organising chairman of the itut event.
“This year, we aim to exceed or even double that number,” he said during the official launch of the itut on Thursday (July 3).
He also extended his gratitude to the Melanau community for their strong support and contributions toward making the project a reality.
“I’m extremely proud that SMC is part of this cultural initiative. I call on the public to come out in full force and help us achieve this historic milestone in the Malaysia Book of Records.
“Come and register yourselves — be part of history,” Ting urged.
Meanwhile, Abang Carrol voiced confidence that the target is within reach, especially with favourable weather conditions expected during the festival period.
“The number of visitors will be recorded throughout the 21st edition of BCF, which runs from July 3 to 12 at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phases 1 and 2.
“Visitors do not need to ride the itut swing to be counted — simply showing up and registering at the site is enough,” he clarified.
Also present at the launch was SMC deputy chairman Mohammed Abdullah Izkandar Roseley. — DayakDaily
