Kaul Mukah showcases Melanau cultural resilience, heritage through vibrant traditions

By DayakDaily Team

MUKAH, April 26: In line with this year’s theme ‘Tiada Seuniknya’ (Nothing Quite Like It), Kaul Mukah 2025 promises a more vibrant celebration, packed with activities that highlight the distinctive traditions of the Melanau community and reaffirm their cultural resilience amid ongoing development.

According to a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news report, the festivities kicked off with a symbolic morning procession along Sungai Tellian, featuring traditional fishing boats beautifully decorated with woven nipah leaves and the ceremonial Seraheng Kakan.

Leading the flotilla was a boat carrying the Seraheng Kakan, followed by a ceremonial handing over of sirih (betel leaves) and bintang—traditional offerings placed at the river mouth to signify arrival at the Kaul site.

Adding prestige to this year’s celebration, Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Economy and Mukah Member of Parliament (MP) Dato Hanifah Hajar Taib joined the procession, underscoring strong community support for the festival.

The traditional rituals continued with the Bapa Kaul (Kaul priest) carving the Seraheng Kakan before filling it with food offerings to Ipok, a revered guardian spirit.

This was followed by the scattering of yellow rice while chanting miyab mibau, a sacred mantra requesting good fortune, abundant harvests from the sea and forests, and lasting health for the community.

Once the ceremonies concluded, guests including Tellian assemblyman Royston Valentine and Mukah District Officer Peleadzman Ahip joined the community in enjoying traditional Melanau delicacies, symbolising the end of the Ipok offering.

Speaking at the Kaul Mukah 2025 Opening Ceremony at Pantai Kala Dana, Royston emphasised that Kaul Mukah is a living testament to the Melanau people’s cultural strength and enduring heritage, even as the region progresses.

“Today, we gather not only to celebrate, but to demonstrate the cultural resilience and rich heritage of the Melanau people through this Kaul Mukah platform, which we have faithfully celebrated for generations,” he said.

Royston highlighted that Kaul Mukah is not just a festival, but a critical platform for showcasing the unique identity of the Melanau community while serving as an important catalyst for Sarawak’s tourism industry.

“This festival is more than an event—it is an invitation to experience the way of life of the Melanau people, through their dance, cuisine, games, clothing, and many other unique cultural expressions,” he added.

Also gracing the ceremony was the Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who represented the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

This year’s Kaul Mukah, taking place from April 19 to 27, features 24 activities ranging from official ceremonies, competitions, workshops, and cultural performances to exhibitions, entertainment, and sales events—all carefully curated to reflect and celebrate the rich Melanau identity.

Royston concluded by stressing the importance of preserving the Melanau heritage, ensuring that every activity during Kaul Mukah continues to uphold and showcase their cultural legacy for future generations. — DayakDaily

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