MUKAH – The coastal town of Mukah is preparing for an unprecedented surge in tourism as the 2026 Mukah Kaul Festival promises a larger and more vibrant celebration of Melanau heritage.
Government officials and cultural leaders have announced a comprehensive itinerary designed to elevate the traditional festival onto the international stage, blending ancient rituals with modern competitive events.
Balingian State Assemblyman Abdul Yakub Arbi confirmed that the festival is strategically structured to boost Sarawak’s tourism profile while preserving the authenticity of Melanau customs.
During a high-level committee meeting at the Sarawak Government Administration Building, it was revealed that the festivities will officially commence on 25 April with the highly anticipated Serahang Kakan ceremony.
This opening ritual is deeply rooted in the spiritual history of the Melanau people. It features a coastal procession of decorated vessels carrying serahang, traditional offering baskets crafted from bamboo and nipah leaves.
These baskets contain symbolic items such as yellow glutinous rice, eggs, and betel nut, intended for the Ipok (guardian of the sea). The ceremony serves as a traditional plea for communal safety, bountiful harvests, and protection from illness.
The festival’s schedule is packed with cultural highlights, including the Teluwaih Jinih beauty pageant, which celebrates the grace of Melanau women and the intricate details of their traditional attire.
Other notable competitions include the Lukut Bidar boat races, Bermukun (traditional song and dance) contests, and culinary challenges focused on authentic Melanau flavours.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg is expected to officiate the grand opening on 2 May at the Tapak Kaul Mukah main stage. Adding to the event’s prestige, the Keman Kaul (community feast) on 3 May is slated to be attended by the Yang di-Pertua Negeri of Sarawak and his spouse.
Tellian State Assemblyman Royston Valentine, who also serves as the Deputy President of the Mukah Melanau Association, emphasised that the success of the event relies on seamless cooperation between the public and private sectors.
He noted that the community stalls will be a major draw, offering visitors a rare chance to sample traditional delicacies unique to the Mukah region alongside dishes from other Sarawakian ethnic groups.
With the festival running until 3 May, local authorities are advising visitors to arrange their travel and accommodation early to avoid the expected heavy congestion.
The 2026 edition of the Kaul Festival stands not only as a religious and social milestone for the Melanau community but also as a vital platform for passing down centuries-old traditions to the younger generation in an increasingly digital world.
