KUCHING: The epic musical drama Rentap : The Battle of Bukit Sadok captivated audiences during a special performance held at the Sarawak Cultural Village on Saturday night.
Adding to the excitement, eager visitors began gathering at the venue as early as 6 pm to witness the historical retelling of Sarawak’s legendary warrior in a performance that stirred both pride and emotion.
Centred on the valiant struggle of Iban warrior Rentap, the musical succeeded in evoking a deep sense of patriotism among Sarawakians, urging them to remember and honour the sacrifices of their forebears in defending their homeland from colonial oppression.
The production marked the grand finale of the Festival Menuai dan Cerita Rakyat Sarawak (Sarawak Harvest and Folklore Festival), an annual event organised by the Sarawak Cultural Village since 1996.
Presented through a compelling blend of dramatic performance, traditional music, and multimedia elements, the theatre piece offered a powerful and immersive experience.
It paid tribute to Rentap’s unwavering courage and leadership as a symbol of 19th-century resistance against colonisation.
Among the distinguished guests in attendance was Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information & UKAS), Datuk Abdullah Saidol.
Beyond entertainment, Rentap served as an educational platform that deepened public appreciation for Sarawak’s cultural heritage and heroic past, instilling a sense of pride in local history.
As a gesture of gratitude for the continued support from the public, organisers opened the two-day staging — on 24 and 25 May 2025 — to all visitors free of charge.
The award-winning festival, which received the Sarawak Hornbill Award in 2024, also aims to strengthen community ties through the celebration of diverse cultures, while preserving heritage and boosting local tourism.
This vibrant musical brought together audiences from all walks of life, narrating local legends and folk tales through a lively and engaging stage production enriched with interactive elements.
The lead role of Rentap was played by celebrated local artist Anding Indrawani, while Melissa Francis took on the role of Sawai, making this one of the most anticipated performances of this year’s festival. -UKASnews
