Thunder god’s son takes centre stage

Members of the Tagal community performing a traditional thanksgiving dance during the Sarawak Harvest and Folklore Festival.

THE story of Belawan Burieng, the legendary warrior of the Kayan people, came to life in a spectacle of music and dance at the Sarawak Cultural Village (SCV).

Performed outdoors on SCV’s lakeside stage in Pantai Damai Santubong, not far from Kuching, the musical drama was the highlight of the annual Sarawak Harvest and Folklore Festival in May.

Legendary Kayan warrior Belawan Burieng was brought to life in a musical drama at the Sarawak Cultural Village.

“This year we are showcasing Orang Ulu culture. Last year it was Iban and next year will be Bidayuh,” SCV sales, marketing and event director Zaini Zainuddin said.

Featuring local talents Azam Pit, Lorna Walter and SCV dancers, Belawan Burieng is a story of courage and reconciliation.

The hero of an ancient tale passed down through generations, Belawan Burieng was believed to be half-human and half-deity – the son of Belarik Ubong, the god of thunder and sky. He was known for his strength, bravery and wisdom, and his fame spread far and wide.

The ‘Ring Ladies’ making an appearance at the Sarawak Harvest and Folklore Festival.

However, this aroused the jealousy of a young warrior, Lidem Avang Kayo, who confronted Belawan Burieng with a magical shield. Belawan Burieng sought help from his father and triumphed after a fierce battle when heavenly fire melted Lidem Avang Kayo’s shield.

News of the defeat reached Bua Benyi, Belawan Burieng’s former wife, who possessed mystical items capable of reviving the dead. With Belawan Burieng’s blessing, she restored Lidem Avang Kayo and his followers to life. They made peace with Belawan Burieng, uniting the Kayan people once again.

The legend, which symbolises unity, forgiveness and divine strength, teaches future generations the importance of peace and harmony within the community.

Belawan Burieng was a showcase of music, dance and traditional costumes.

Despite only a month of preparation, the musical drama was a spectacular display of songs, choreography and scenery.

“Every scene has a climax,” Zaini said. “There are fighting scenes and romantic scenes with a waterfall in the background. We had very good props for this show.”

He said SCV would continue to stage musical dramas every year based on the legends and folk tales of Sarawak’s diverse ethnic communities.

Members of the Sarawak Tagal (Okolod) Association getting ready for a cultural performance at the Sarawak Harvest and Folklore Festival.

“We would like to do it quarterly, not only during the Gawai celebration. Then we can feature the stories not only of the Iban, Bidayuh and Orang Ulu, but also other races like the Malay and Chinese,” he added.

Besides the Belawan Burieng musical, the Sarawak Harvest and Folklore Festival also featured cultural shows and interactive workshops led by various cultural associations.

Among them were the Sarawak Tagal (Okolod) Association, which preserves the cultural heritage of the Tagal, a minority Orang Ulu community from Lawas in northern Sarawak.

A romantic scene from the musical featuring a waterfall in the background.

A highlight of their repertoire is the Alang Aniwol, a welcoming dance accompanied by gong music, often performed at official ceremonies, weddings and social events.

The “Ring Ladies” of Kampung Semban, a Bidayuh village near Kuching, also appeared at the festival, wearing distinctive copper rings which symbolise beauty, strength and status.

In addition, the festival offered opportunities to visitors to participate in traditional games and sample local cuisine.

With the theme “Celebrating Heritage, Inspiring Future”, the festival honoured the past while encouraging the next generation to appreciate and continue their cultural traditions through fresh ideas and creativity.