Wide array of authentic Iban delicacies at Sibu’s new Dayak food court

Penguang hitting the gong to launch the food court in Permai Lake Garden, Sibu.

The newly opened Permai Lake Garden Food Court in Sibu, Sarawak, is a Dayak food court offering authentic Iban delicacies.

Among them are pansuh or manok pansuh, a traditional dish of chicken (or other meats) cooked in a bamboo tube with herbs like lemongrass and ginger.

Also available at the food court is kacangma, a fermented chicken dish cooked with motherwort (kacangma) and rice wine.

Kasam ikan is made with fish, often preserved with salt and rice, for a strong umami flavour. The dish can also be made with pork.

Another popular dish is umai, a salad made from thinly sliced raw fish in lime juice, onions, chillies and tuak (rice wine).

“This food court is set to become more than just a dining destination.

“It will help promote tourism and support local businesses, particularly the Dayak community,” said Sibu Muni­cipal Council (SMC) chairman Clarence Ting.

Speaking at the launch of the food court, Ting said Permai Lake Garden had long been a popular recreational spot, offering a serene environment.

With the addition of the food court, the area is expected to attract more visitors while providing a platform for vendors and entrepreneurs to thrive.

“This project not only enhances our tourism sector but also strengthens our community bonds as this is a place where families and friends can gather, enjoy good food and make lasting memories,” he said.

It is also expected to contribute to the economic growth of the region by empowering local vendors and drawing visitors from beyond Sibu, he added.

Sarawak Public Health, Housing and Local Gov­ern­­­ment Deputy Minister Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil, who launched the food court, said: “Sibu district under SMC has a population of 217,000 and another 70,000 under the Sibu Rural District Council.

“The town has 40,000 Iban. So this is an opportune place to showcase Iban food, culture and handicraft,” he said.

Penguang advised SMC to improve the place by building a floating stage.

“If you have a stage in the middle of the lake, the SMC chairman could perhaps invite singers from peninsular Malay­­sia to perform.

“The stage would not only showcase local food, culture and traditions but also handicrafts of the Dayak community.” — By ANDY CHUA