Wong (left) and Durie (right) in a photo call with visitors at their Buri craft booth.
KUCHING (Aug 11): The intricate artistry of Buri handicrafts and soulful melodies of the sape took centre stage during Sarawak Week at the Malaysia Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka.
The Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts in a statement said the highlight of Sarawak Week was the live demonstration by master Buri artisans Wong Yau Nyau and Duri Likong from Kapit alongside presentations by accomplished sape musicians Danison Manium and Elizabeth Bungan Peter from Persatuan Anak Seni Sarawak.
It said that according to Iban folklore from the Rajang region, the origins of the Buri are traced back to the supernatural hero Bunsu Remaung, who was renowned for his strength and bravery.
“Whenever he visited his human wife, Bunsu Remaung would neatly arrange his Buri costume before entering the house.
“Inspired by this tradition, the community adopted the ‘selampai Buri’ (Buri cloth) as part of their ceremonial attire, which eventually became an iconic element of the Iban traditional costume,” said the ministry, adding this heritage became the centrepiece of the Sarawak Week’s craft showcase from Aug 4-10.
The complementary sape performance, on the other hand, transported audiences into the heart of Sarawak’s musical traditions.
Elizabeth (left) and Danison captivate the audience with their performance.
“Also known as the boat lute of Borneo, the sape’s melodious tones have long been integral to community gatherings, spiritual rituals and oral storytelling among the Orang Ulu communities.
“The performances by Danison and Elizabeth resonated deeply with visitors, offering a sensory journey through Sarawak’s cultural landscape,” it said.
Visitors try their skills at Buri craft.
Meanwhile, the ministry said the pavilion welcomed an average of 15,000 visitors daily — contributing to the expo’s impressive attendance of approximately 140,000 visitors during the first week of August.
“The ministry’s participation reflects its commitment to preserving, promoting, and sharing Sarawak’s tangible and intangible heritage on the world stage.
“Showcasing traditional crafts like Buri weaving and the sape’s timeless music not only celebrates Sarawak’s artistic legacy but also strengthens cultural identity and continuity.
“Through this vibrant representation at Expo Osaka 2025, Sarawak reaffirms its dedication to safeguarding heritage while fostering cross-cultural appreciation and exchange,” it said.
Featuring 150 pavilions from around the world, the Osaka Expo celebrates diverse cultures, cutting-edge innovations and a wide range of industries. The Osaka Expo, also known as World Expo, runs from April 13 to October 13.
Held once every five years, the Osaka Expo 2025 unites nations, organisations, and industries to share visionary ideas, showcase cultural heritage, and promote global cooperation.
AloJapan.com