Besides the feline fame of this 'Cat City', the Sarawak Cutural Village is one of the top attractions .
We had an early start. Already the place was thronged with buses and more buses and vans.
Situated at the foothills of the legendary Mt Santubong, this village enlightens the visitors with its 7 authentic ethnic houses built around a man -made lake all under one vast expanse.
As we entered the different houses, we were transported into different unique worlds. The friendly people delighted us with their daily activities - beading, singing, cooking, crafting etc. And for a small fee, we bought a few local delicacies cooked there and then.
Making local kueh ( charcoal fire )
Local medications - arthritis, toothache etc
Dressing up a lass in the Bidayuh costume
Spinning top (gasing) secure, ready to throw
Such a showcase of the different cultures of the people of Sarawak - Iban, Bidayuh, Melanau, Orang Ulu, Penan, Chinese and Malay can only tell the wonderful stories of times gone by and into the present.
Spinning top - on my palm
I was quite determined to spin the top ( gasing). But how? With a good dose of help from the guru (teacher), I did ! Then I asked for the top to spin on my palm. He willingly obliged - spun the top for me and I had to flatten my palm ... hooray!
Melanau Long House
Anthoni pointing to the props ( Melanau Long House)
Iban Long House
For 3 tries (RM1.00), my husband tried the blowpipe at the Penan hut. Good attempts to hit the target but he needed more - whatever living breath he has !
Penan with his blowpipe
So much more came alive when we sat ourselves down together with the crowds at the Dewan Legenda , a mini theatre to watch the dances and songs in a special showcase. It was color galore with the musical instruments used to their best advantage. The entertainers also infused some humour to get us together as one.
To round off an amazing display of the arts, the visitors were invited on stage to do the joget . And what better song to sing to close a lovely time other than one of our favourite Malaysian songs , Rasa Sayang. That lifted our spirits even higher.
Bidayuh lady and her woven craft
I hear the fame of the village has spread far and wide as the Sarawak Rainforest Music Festival is a happening event there. People across continents gather every July to showcase their traditional music, world fusion and contemporary world music.
Iban Dance
So, that's another added attraction for an easy going city of friendly people, Kuching.
Posts
