Gallery bridges generations by spreading awareness of community’s history, customs and traditions.
THE Melanau Heritage Gallery in the small coastal town of Oya, Sarawak, is a source of pride for the local community.
Opened in 2022, the gallery displays the culture and history of the Melanau, particularly those in Oya and Dalat.
“We want to ensure that our cultural heritage does not disappear. Even in Dalat, many of the younger generation do not know our heritage,” gallery operations manager Hendi Suhai said.
He said the gallery’s vision and mission are to preserve Melanau cultural heritage and spread awareness of the community’s history, customs and traditions to others.
This is showcased in its collection of artefacts, which include historic objects, traditional items and Melanau costumes.
The gallery also provides information on the local community’s history, economic activities and leading figures.
Hendi said many of the artefacts were contributed by the community. Some of the oldest items are porcelain ware, ceramic jars and weapons dating from the era of Sarawak’s third White Rajah Vyner Brooke, who ruled from 1917 to 1946.
A local fashion designer contributed traditional costumes that include various buttons indicating family status.
“As a Melanau, it’s fantastic to have this gallery. We feel proud that we now have a gallery to showcase our culture and heritage,” Hendi said.
He said plans were now under way to develop phase two of the gallery this year.
This next phase will comprise 10 components, including Melanau traditional music, medicine, games, handicrafts, food and rituals like engagements, weddings and funerals.
Other components to be included are Melanau political leaders, origin of village names, the “kaul” festival and a mini auditorium for music and cultural performances.
“We will purchase Melanau traditional musical instruments and teach the local people to play them,” Hendi said.
“We also want to showcase our traditional food like siet (sago worms), umai (sliced raw fish marinated in lime juice, onion and chilli) and tebaloi (sago crackers).”
With the expansion, Hendi has high hopes that the gallery will have a meaningful impact on the younger generation.
“They can learn about the history of the Melanau community and our local leaders.
“We also want to teach them their Melanau origins so that they don’t forget their identity,” he said.
The gallery is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with entry fees ranging from RM1 to RM10 for students, adults, senior citizens and foreign visitors.
