KUCHING, July 28: A celebration of culture, friendship and healthy living brought together members of Taipoo Let’s Dance and the Sayang Sayang Group as they gathered to commemorate Sarawak Day alongside several important milestones in Kuching on Sunday, July 26.
Held at Jawhara Crystal Pavilion, a restored colonial heritage bungalow that has recently been converted into a restaurant and café, the event attracted members dressed in traditional Sarong Kebaya attire, reflecting the elegance and rich heritage of the Peranakan community. The gathering began with a Hi-Tea session at 4pm before continuing with dinner at 6pm, while music, line dancing and social activities kept the atmosphere lively throughout the evening.
The celebration marked the 21st anniversary of Taipoo Let’s Dance, a community dance group established to encourage active lifestyles and social interaction through line dancing. It also celebrated the 11th anniversary of the Sayang Sayang Group, which was formed in 2015 when members adopted the Sarong Kebaya theme to preserve and promote Nyonya traditions.
Over the past two decades, Taipoo Let’s Dance has grown into more than just a dance group. It has become a close-knit community where women from different backgrounds gather regularly to stay physically active while building meaningful friendships. Members currently range from their 60s to 80s, with some having been part of the group since they were in their 50s.
The group continues to hold line dance classes every Monday and Wednesday from 7.15pm to 9.15pm at the Taipoo Association along Jalan Tabuan. Dancing to oldies and traditional Nyonya songs remains one of the group’s unique features, combining exercise with cultural appreciation.
Throughout its 21-year journey, Taipoo Let’s Dance has organised numerous community gatherings and festive celebrations, including Chinese New Year open houses, Christmas celebrations, Mooncake Festival events, anniversary dinners and other social activities. These programmes have helped strengthen friendships among members while preserving traditions that continue to be appreciated across generations.
This year’s event combined four meaningful occasions into one memorable celebration. Besides commemorating Sarawak Day and the anniversaries of Taipoo Let’s Dance and the Sayang Sayang Group, members also celebrated the birthdays of those born in July.
The Sarong Kebaya theme added a nostalgic touch to the gathering as members wore colourful traditional attire that reflected the beauty of Nyonya culture. Traditional kuih, cakes, toasts and dinner complemented the evening, while dancing and entertainment created an enjoyable atmosphere for everyone in attendance.
The organising committee expressed its appreciation to dance instructor and founder Lorna Hui for her dedication in leading both Taipoo Let’s Dance and the Sayang Sayang Group over the years. Her commitment has played an important role in encouraging women to remain active while preserving cultural traditions through dance and community activities.
Special appreciation was also extended to the Sarawak Daily media team and Kuching King for attending the event and documenting the celebration. The organisers also thanked photographers Sabrina Yap, Lorna, Teo Leh Hua, Mary Then, Datin Hannah Lo-Wan, Marian Goh, Justina Cynth, Delia Boon, Jong Nyong Lan (Ah Lian), Patricia Chin, Lee BeBe and Lai Thin Jin for capturing memorable moments throughout the gathering.
As the evening came to an end, members expressed hope that the group would continue to grow and inspire more women to embrace active living while preserving the unique traditions of the Nyonya community. The celebration also reflected the spirit of unity and togetherness that Sarawak Day represents, bringing people together through culture, friendship and shared memories.
