Borneo festival coming to Subang

(From right) Nannucci, Hee and Mohd Roslan watching a cultural performance at the press conference. — ONG SOON HIN/The Star

BORNEO Cultural Festival 2023 (BCF) is set to offer an insight into the vibrant culture and heritage of Sabah and Sarawak.

Organised by the Malaysia Fashion, Modelling and Pageant Association (MFMPA), the festival will be held at Subang Parade shopping centre in Subang Jaya, Selangor on Oct 28 and 29.MFMPA president Dr Jason Hee said in promoing the heritage of Sabah and Sarawak, the festival had the potential to eradicate the cutural gap and foster a deep sense of unity and understanding among Malaysians.

“BCF 2023 serves as an invaluable platform to bring together Sabah and Sarawak communities and the people of Peninsular Malaysia,” he added.

BCF 2023 organising chairman Junzuenn Basalan expects about 1,000 people at the festival that would showcase various activities and experiences.

“We are bringing a cultural exhibition of the traditional attire, equipment and handicraft of Sabah and Sarawak.

“Visitors will also have the chance to try on the traditional clothes and take pictures,” said Junzuenn during the launch of BCF 2023.

Visitors can also enjoy mesmerising music and dance performances by various Sabah and Sarawak ethnic groups, which they would be welcome to join.

“We want to celebrate the rich tapestry of culture that makes Borneo a vital part of Malaysia,” said Junzuenn.

Tourism Malaysia package development division director Mohd Roslan Abdullah, who attended the launch, hoped the festival would attract both domestic and foreign tourists.

“This will create more business opportunities for our people.

“We are gearing up for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and aiming to achieve 16 million international tourist arrivals this year.”

BCF 2023 also has special booths for tour service providers to showcase services and packages for Sabah and Sarawak. Visitors can also taste an array of traditional Borneo dishes.

Also present were Park Royal Collection Hotel complex general manager Christian Nannucci, Subang Parade chief executive officer Aldela Puspa, its general manager Rebecca Phan, Rapid Borneo Freight Shipping Inc managing director Mariati Uttok and fashion designer Datuk Aaron Von Jolly.