KUCHING, June 14 – Hundreds of people gathered at the Godown Amphitheater along the Kuching Riverbank on Saturday evening to witness the SAMarindok Sarawak Malay Cultural Performance 2026 Series II: Traditional Malay Poetry, a programme aimed at preserving and promoting Sarawak Malay cultural heritage.
The event was organised by Amanah Khairat Yayasan Budaya Melayu Sarawak (AKYBMS) and featured a vibrant presentation of traditional Malay poetry combined with storytelling and stage performance elements. The programme successfully attracted audiences from different backgrounds, reflecting growing public interest in local arts and cultural heritage.
The performance highlighted historical narratives linked to the Saribas Malay Kingdom and the Kalaka Malay Kingdom. Among the stories featured were the life journeys of Dang Umbok and Dang Ukok, two important characters found in Sarawak Malay literary heritage. These stories were adapted from manuscripts that have been researched, translated, and published through the AKYBMS repository.
The unique presentation brought history to life through creative performances by AKYBMS artists. By combining traditional literary works with modern stage techniques, the programme provided an engaging experience for both younger and older audiences.
The event also reflected AKYBMS’ ongoing commitment to reviving Sarawak Malay performing arts through approaches that are more accessible and appealing to the wider community. Organisers believe that such efforts are important in ensuring that traditional cultural expressions remain relevant in today’s society.
A special highlight of the evening was the involvement of the New Generation of Artists from the AKYBMS Art Agency. Their participation demonstrated the organisation’s dedication to nurturing young talent and encouraging greater youth involvement in arts and cultural activities.
Speaking during the programme, AKYBMS General Manager, Datu Dr Haji Sanib Said, expressed hope that efforts to preserve and uphold Sarawak Malay cultural heritage would continue to receive strong support from all sectors of society.
He also encouraged arts practitioners and community members to work together in strengthening the state’s arts and culture ecosystem. According to him, such collaboration is in line with the aspirations outlined in the AKYBMS Strategic Plan 2015–2035, particularly under its Religion and Culture pillar.
Datu Dr Sanib said preserving cultural heritage is essential in strengthening Sarawak Malay identity and enhancing positive cultural branding. He stressed that local arts and traditions must continue to be passed down to future generations to ensure their survival and relevance.
Looking ahead, AKYBMS announced that the next SAMarindok programme is scheduled for September 12 and will focus on Pencak Silat, another important aspect of Malay cultural heritage. The organisation also welcomed strategic partnerships and collaborations to further promote Sarawak Malay arts and support the continued growth of traditional stage performances in line with current cultural development trends.
The success of the Traditional Malay Poetry series demonstrated the public’s appreciation for cultural programmes and highlighted the importance of preserving Sarawak’s rich heritage for future generations.
