BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The Asean Traditional Textile exhibition at Universiti Teknologi Brunei recently featured traditional attire of Brunei’s seven ethnic groups.
Country Director of Asean Youth Advocates Network (Ayan) Brunei Yura Sri Nur’Ain Qaisara in an interview with the Weekend Bulletin said, “We are showcasing the attire of each ethnic group – Melayu Brunei, Kedayan, Dusun, Tutong, Belait, Murut and Bisaya – representing the vibrant community in the Sultanate.”
The non-governmental organisation focuses on promoting Asean identity through advocacy and community.
She said, “This exhibition gives us, especially the youth, a chance to learn about the history of these textiles and how each traditional dress is personalised.”
She also emphasised the importance of understanding each ethnic group, sharing that, “As someone from the Tutong ethnic Group, I didn’t know much about our background until I was tasked with researching and curating our traditional outfit.”
Yura Sri Nur’Ain Qaisara also stressed the importance of passing down knowledge to the younger generation, not just through exhibitions but by nurturing it from an early age.
“For me, I only knew about the different types of attire we wear in Tutong District. There’s a need for a sense of identity and a passion to learn more about our heritage and tradition,” she said.
She also stressed on the need to reach a wider audience and engage today’s youth in promoting traditional textiles through storytelling and personal connections.
The exhibition, organised by UTB and the Asean diplomatic missions in Bandar Seri Begawan, promotes cultural heritage and regional unity during the Asean Month. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
