BARAM: The Highland Development Agency (HDA), under the Regional Corridor Development Authority (RECODA), is thrilled to participate in the Baram Basin Indigenous Cultural Festival (BBiC Festival 2024), bringing a spotlight to the region's transformation through ongoing and completed development initiatives.

The festival, held in Long Lama from November 30  to December 1, celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous communities in Baram, while also highlighting the efforts being made to uplift the local population through sustainable development. 

Visitors are encouraged to explore HDA’s exhibition, where they can learn about vital infrastructure projects and impactful socio-economic programmes currently underway across the region.

Through its development agenda, HDA has focused on enhancing connectivity, improving basic amenities, and promoting economic growth within the Baram region. 

This progress is not just about physical infrastructure, but also about empowering local communities by creating job opportunities, boosting income levels, and providing access to essential services.

The BBiC Festival 2024 was officially launched by Baram Member of Parliament, Dato Anyi Ngau, who praised the collaborative efforts between government agencies and local communities in driving positive change. 

He emphasised the importance of sustainable development, particularly in rural areas, to ensure that all communities in Sarawak benefit from the state's growth.

Throughout the two-day festival, participants will have the opportunity to engage with various exhibitions, performances, and cultural showcases that celebrate the unique heritage of the Baram Basin's indigenous groups. 

The event not only serves as a platform for cultural preservation but also underscores the role of development in ensuring the well-being and future prosperity of these communities.

Other notable guests at the event included Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak, Dominic Nyurang Ajeng, Telang Usan District Officer and Chairperson of the BBiC Festival 2024, Ezra Uda, Kayan Community Chief for Miri, Temenggong Elizabeth Deng and Kenyah Community Chief for Miri, Temenggong Joseph Ngau Lian.-UKASnews