SRI AMAN: The 22nd edition of Pesta Benak promises to be more vibrant this year, with a total prize pool of RM135,560 awaiting participants in the regatta.

Lingga Assemblywoman, Dayang Noorazah Awang Sohor, said the growing prize fund reflects the increasing prestige of the event, alongside an increase in participation each year.

“I noticed that the cash prize for the Raja Sungai title has also grown. Previously, it was around RM10,000 to RM12,000, but this year we can see a total of RM25,000 being contested for the coveted Raja Sungai title.

“I would also like to extend my appreciation to the more than 20 teams from across Sarawak who are competing for the title of Raja Benak, also known as Raja Sungai Batang Lupar,” she said during the soft launch of the 22nd Pesta Benak at Sri Aman Waterfront on Friday.

Also present were Sri Aman Resident Mahra Salleh, Deputy Resident Charlie Keling, Sri Aman District Officer Shariff Bujang, Lingga District Officer Frank Lani, heads of departments and other distinguished guests.

In addition to the regatta, this year’s festival features 609 trade lots for food, beverage, services, and other entrepreneurs.

According to Dayang Noorazah, business platforms created through the festival not only attract visitors from within and outside Sri Aman, but also provide a boost to small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The official opening ceremony on 20 September will be officiated by Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, while the closing on 21 September will be graced by the Head of State, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar. –UKASnews