Location: Sibu Town Square, Sarawak, Malaysia
Dates: Approx. 21–30 July 2025
Entry: Free Admission
Introduction: What is the Borneo Cultural Festival?
The Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF) 2025 returns to Sibu, Sarawak for another spectacular celebration of Sarawak’s multicultural heritage. Spanning approximately ten nights, this festival is a beloved annual tradition that brings together the Dayak, Chinese, Malay, and Melanau communities through a vibrant showcase of music, dance, food, fashion, and cultural expression.
Held at the centrally located Sibu Town Square, the BCF offers locals and tourists an unforgettable experience of Bornean culture—all in one dynamic space.
Cultural Highlights at BCF 2025
1. Ethnic Performance Nights
Each night of the festival is themed around one of Sarawak’s major ethnic groups:
- Dayak Night: Ngajat dance, sape (lute) music, Iban war cries.
- Chinese Night: Lion & dragon dances, Chinese orchestra, traditional opera.
- Malay & Melanau Night: Silat martial arts, zapin dance, traditional poetry (pantun).
These performances are staged in the open air, under the stars, attracting thousands nightly.
2. Food & Bazaar Delights
The BCF food bazaar is a must-visit. You’ll find:
- Local delicacies: ayam pansuh (bamboo chicken), Sarawak laksa, kampua mee, kuih-muih, and more.
- Ethnic snacks and indigenous drinks.
- Handicrafts: beads, textiles, carved wood, and tribal art sold by artisans.
3. Pageants & Cultural Competitions
Cultural beauty and heritage are celebrated with:
- Kumang & Keling Pageants: Showcasing Dayak fashion, poise, and knowledge.
- Costume parades, traditional music competitions, and language contests.
These events highlight the youth’s role in keeping tradition alive.
4. Cultural Exhibition Booths
Throughout the square, you’ll discover:
- Interactive heritage booths by community groups.
- Mini museums featuring traditional tools, farming practices, and wedding customs.
- Workshops in weaving, dance, and language.
Practical Information
Location
Sibu Town Square Phase I & II, in the heart of Sibu town, makes it accessible for all.
How to Get There
- By air: Fly to Sibu Airport from Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, or Kuching.
- Local transport: Taxis and e-hailing (Grab) are widely available.
Where to Stay
Popular choices near the venue:
- RH Hotel Sibu
- Tanahmas Hotel
- Premier Hotel
All are within walking distance to the festival grounds.
Travel Tips for Festival-Goers
- Bring a hat or umbrella – evenings can be humid or rainy.
- Wear comfortable shoes – there’s plenty of walking and standing.
- Come early for the best food and front-row seats to shows.
- Try a new dish every night!
Suggested Photo Opportunities at BCF 2025
- Traditional dancers in full costume during opening night
- Lion dance teams leaping through the crowd
- Close-ups of Sarawak dishes like umai or ayam pansuh
- Kumang & Keling pageant contestants on stage
- Cultural booths with old tools, fabrics, and storyboards
- Crowd scenes under colourful lanterns at night
Why Visit the Borneo Cultural Festival?
Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, photographer, foodie, or casual traveler, the Borneo Cultural Festival is a top event in Malaysia’s July 2025 festival calendar. It’s not just a show—it’s an immersive journey into Borneo’s soul.
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness the diversity of Sarawak’s living cultures in one place!
Quick Facts: BCF 2025 at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Sibu Town Square, Sarawak |
| Dates | 21–30 July 2025 (estimated) |
| Admission | Free |
| Main Attractions | Cultural nights, food bazaar, pageants, exhibitions |
| Target Audience | Families, tourists, cultural enthusiasts |
