SIBU: The 7th edition of Lan Berambeh Sungkei 2025 in Sibu will feature a special theme this year, focusing on traditional attire.

Sibu Division Resident, Abang Mohamad Porkan Abang Budiman, announced that the event, set to take place on March 15, aims to attract 20,000 participants.

The programme, organised by the Sibu Division Islamic Festival Committee in collaboration with the N.55 Nangka State Constituency Service Centre and the Sarawak Department of National Unity and Integration (JPNIN), will be held at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phase I, starting at 4.00 PM.

“It follows a ‘potluck’ concept, where attendees are encouraged to bring their own dishes and exchange them, reflecting our long-standing tradition.

“This will be the seventh edition, with the first held in 2017. The event was paused in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said during a press conference for Lan Berambeh Sungkei 2025 at the 5th Floor Meeting Room, Sibu Resident Office, on Saturday.

He added that Sarawak Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapa'ee, and Minister of National Unity, Dato Sri Aaron Ago Dagang, are expected to attend the event to add to the festivities.

The programme’s objective, he explained, is to foster stronger bonds among the community, regardless of race or religion, by promoting a culture of unity and togetherness, while celebrating the holy month of Ramadan.

Additionally, Abang Mohamad Porkan highlighted that such annual events have the potential to attract visitors or tourists from other districts or states to Sibu to witness the culture of tolerance and unity among Sarawakians.

“We are inviting local representatives, department heads, associations, and the general public to join in the event, wearing traditional attire as part of the theme.

“The breaking of fast (sungkei) will commence at 6.46 PM, starting with the ceremonial beating of the beduk drum by the guest of honour, followed by a communal sungkei.

“The programme will also include the distribution of various traditional dishes such as bubur pedas, bubur lambuk, dates, kolok mee, chicken rice, and many more, sponsored by various agencies and departments,” he added.

To further enliven the event, competitions such as the Bedil Competition, Beduk Drumming Contest, and Best-Dressed Traditional Attire for both men and women will be held.

He extended a warm invitation to visitors from nearby areas such as Sarikei, Kapit, and Mukah, as well as from other divisions or states, to join in and enhance the celebration. -UKASnews