MATU – The Pesta Matu 2025 festival has been hailed as a meaningful platform to promote healthy lifestyles among youth while strengthening family bonds and community relations.
Speaking at the closing ceremony held at the Matu and Daro District Council Hall (MDMD), Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Integrity and Ombudsman), Datuk Dr Juanda Jaya, emphasised that the festival goes beyond entertainment, serving as a social initiative with long-term benefits.
“The organisation of Pesta Matu is not just for entertainment, but brings a big and meaningful objective, which is to set an example of a healthy lifestyle for the youth and provide a space for leisure and family activities that can strengthen community relations,” he said.
Dr Juanda, who is also the State Assemblyman (ADUN) for Jemoreng, added that festivals like Pesta Matu play a vital role in creating a balanced, active, and united society.
“When our youth are involved in healthy activities and the community works together to make it a success, it will form a positive culture that brings long-term benefits to the community,” he explained.
The festival featured a wide range of activities that encouraged active participation from the community. These included government agency exhibitions, darts competitions, blood donation campaigns, colouring contests, mini regattas, cooking competitions, Matu Idol events, and petanque matches.
One of the highlights was the Matu Idol Singing Competition, which attracted 20 participants from Matu, Mukah, and Sibu, demonstrating that the festival’s appeal extended beyond district boundaries.
Dr Juanda also noted that the festival provided an important platform to showcase the services of government agencies, while highlighting the unique culture and talents of the local community.
The closing ceremony was attended by Matu District Officer Hamidah Halpi and Pemanca Mesaleh @ Che Jeni Shahdan, alongside other community leaders and residents.
By combining cultural showcases, sporting events, and health-focused activities, Pesta Matu 2025 reinforced its role as a unifying celebration that promotes wellness, inclusivity, and community spirit in Sarawak.
