BAU – Bung Bratak Day 2026 has once again proved to be a vital platform for celebrating the cultural heritage of the Bidayuh community while simultaneously boosting tourism in the region.
The annual event, held at Kampung Tembawang Sauh in Bau, attracted visitors from within Sarawak and abroad, reinforcing its role as a cultural and economic driver.
Deputy Minister for Transport (Riverine and Maritime), Datuk Henry Harry Jinep, officiated the festival and emphasised its importance in strengthening cultural identity and promoting tourism.
He noted that the event provides outsiders with a closer look at Bidayuh traditions, while also generating economic opportunities for the local community.
“Programmes like this provide an opportunity for outsiders to get to know Bidayuh culture more closely, while simultaneously attracting tourists to this region. With the increasing number of visitors each year, it indirectly helps generate the local community’s economy through the various activities organised,” he said when speaking to the media after the opening ceremony.
The Bung Bratak area is recognised for its natural beauty and potential as a nature-based tourism destination.
Hiking activities, in particular, have become increasingly popular among visitors, offering both recreational enjoyment and opportunities to appreciate the environment.
Datuk Henry highlighted that such activities are well-suited to the terrain and contribute to preserving the natural surroundings.
In addition to hiking, the festival featured a range of cultural programmes and performances by local artistes.
These activities not only entertained visitors but also showcased the richness of Bidayuh traditions, from music and dance to storytelling and community rituals.
The inclusion of cultural performances has been a consistent highlight of Bung Bratak Day, drawing interest from tourists and reinforcing the event’s reputation as a cultural showcase.
Datuk Henry further explained that continuous promotion of Bung Bratak as a tourism destination could enhance its appeal and position it as one of Sarawak’s high-potential tourism locations.
He stressed that sustained efforts in cultural preservation and tourism development are essential to ensure long-term benefits for the community.
Observers note that Bung Bratak Day has steadily grown in prominence, with increasing visitor numbers each year.
The festival not only strengthens cultural pride among the Bidayuh community but also contributes to Sarawak’s broader tourism strategy, which seeks to highlight the state’s diverse heritage and natural attractions.
By combining cultural celebration with tourism promotion, Bung Bratak Day 2026 has reaffirmed its role as a bridge between tradition and modern development.
The event continues to inspire community participation, attract international interest, and support Sarawak’s vision of sustainable tourism growth.
