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Top 10 Reasons Why You Should Watch Outlander

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(Picture source: Starz.com)

If you are obsessed with Game of Thrones (GoT), then you would love Outlander. Based on a book series by Diana Gabaldon, we follow the story of a WW2 combat nurse who, through the magic of some time portal stones in the Scottish countryside, finds herself transported back in time to Scotland in 1743.

From its story line, cinematography and characters, here are the top 10 reasons why you should watch Outlander.

 

1. Claire Fraser

Claire Fraser played by Caitriona Balfe (Picture source: Starz.com)

Claire Fraser (played by the flawless Caitriona Balfe) is definitely Kajo girl-material.

As one of the main protagonist in the series, she is a combat nurse from 1940s England.

As a woman ahead of her own time, she fiercely values her own independence and freedom.

Even in tough times, she stubbornly refuses to be part of any patriarchal social system or take orders blindly without questioning them.

However, there are a few times in the series where her need to make a stand (usually at the wrong time) can make you grab your hair in frustration because it usually gets her in trouble.

2. Jamie Fraser

Jamie Fraser played by Sam Hueghan (Picture source: Starz.com)

Just watching Jamie Fraser (played by Sam Heughan)  is enough to turn anybody into a fictiophilia.

If you’re wondering how to pronounce Sam’s last name, in a 2013 Facebook post where Outlander author Diana Gabaldon first announces Heughan as Jamie Fraser, she relates how she asked him to pronounce his last name: “HEW-an is good or if you can, insert the Scottish throat clearing/spitting sound in the middle… HewCH-an. Hard to get right first time without spraying close friends with saliva.”

3. Time traveling factor

Claire travel back in time to the 1700s Scotland (Picture source: Starz.com)

While on a second-honeymoon in Scotland with her husband Frank Randall (played by honey-voiced Tobias Menzies), Claire accidentally time travels to the 1700s through a circle of standing stones.

In her confusion, there she first bumps into Jonathan ‘Jack Black’ Randall, a mirror-image of her husband Frank. (If you’ve been paying attention from the beginning of the episode, you’ll find out how they’re related.) Eventually, she will bump into Jamie Fraser’s clan, and she will eventually learn of the Highlander struggle for Scottish independence from the English.

If you think that Outlander is going to be one of those typical time travel stories where either one of them has to follow the other to the future or stay back in the past, you’re almost right.

4. The unnecessarily attractive cast of Outlander

Is it necessary that they all have to be attractive?

Apart from our favourite couple Jamie and Claire, the cast of Outlander look more like runway models.

While most of them might be covered in dirt, blood, sweat and tears, they are still insanely gorgeous at the same time.

It is also unfair that Jamie and Claire have an unnecessarily attractive daughter as well (oops….spoiler alert).

5. The many Vogue-worthy moments (mainly Claire’s wardrobe)

While the clothes from the 1700s in Europe look suffocating and heavy, that does not mean they have to be unfashionable.

From season 1, Claire’s outfits have been eyecatching and praise-worthy. However, the stakes in fashion really got an upgrade in Outlander when they moved to France.

6. The books by Diana Gabaldon are still ongoing!

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The Outlander series has eight books (Picture source: Pixabay)

Outlander is the same as GoT in that the series is based on a series of books.

First started by Diana Gabaldon as a personal project on what it took to write a novel, today the Outlander series have spanned  eight books… and two decades. The first one was published in 1991, and the latest, Written in my own heart’s blood, in 2014.

Like GoT, the series is yet to be completed, with the ninth one – Go Tell the Bees That I Am Gone – forthcoming and fans are dying to know what happens next.

7. Scotland: A holiday-mode destination

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Scotland (Picture source: Pixabay)

Taking place in historical Scotland, the series were shot in numerous places such as the Doune Castle, Stirling; East Linton, East Lothian, Newtonmre in the Scottish Highland, Rothiemurchus Forest; Bathgate; West Lothian and Aberfoyle, Stirling.

While watching Outlander, one can’t resist but think of it as a traveling channel as you might find yourself unintentionally planning an imaginary vacation to Scotland.

8. Stay for the history

Jamie and Jack Randall during the Battle of Culloden (Picture source: Starz.com)

While the characters may be fictional, some of the plot lines in the series are based on real events and sometimes refer to real people throughout history.

In the final episode of Season 2, the storyline is set in the time of the Battle of Culloden which took place in April 16th, 1746.

9. Plenty of time to catch up

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Something to binge-watch (Picture source: Pixabay)

As of now, Outlander has produced three seasons with 16 episodes in Season 1 and 13 episodes for both Season 2 and 3 respectively.

So if you are planning to watch the latest season, you have plenty of time to catch up.

Apart from that, the straightforward and uncomplicated plot line makes it easy for fans to process and digest.

10. Outlander has been renewed for two more seasons!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FzQcnVVhDAg

According to some reports, Outlander has been given a two-season renewal, taking the series into six seasons.

Season 4 of Outlander is set to air sometime in November this year.  The latest season is said to be based on Diana Gabaldon’s fourth book, Drums of Autumn.

To know more, click here.

 

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The grandeur of Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque

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Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque is located at Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei

When travelling to Brunei, it is hard not to miss the magnificent architectural sight of the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque.

Located in the capital Bandar Seri Begawan, the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque serves as a symbol of Islamic faith in Brunei.

Considered one of the most beautiful mosques in the Asia Pacific, here are some fun facts about the majestic building.

 

Who is Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin?

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The late Sultan Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien III was the father of the current Sultan of Brunei (Picture source: Tanwir.my/)

The Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque was named after the 28th Sultan of Brunei. Known as The Architect of Modern Brunei, he was the one who initiated the construction of the mosque.

Sultan Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien III ruled from June 4th, 1950 until his voluntary abdication from the throne on October 5th, 1967. He was replaced by his eldest son, Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah.

When was it built?

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The mosque was built between 1954 and 1958

Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque was built between 1954 and 1958. It was designed by A.O Coltman of Booty and Edwards Chartered Architects of UK, based in Malaysia at the time.

The mosque, a blend of Western and oriental architecture is surrounded by a breathtaking landscape, making it the best spot for selfies and sketching activities.

While you cannot take pictures inside the mosque, its interior is equally dazzling. The floor and walls are made from marble columns with stained glass windows and beautiful carvings. The granite is said to be from Shanghai, the chandeliers from England, and the carpets from Saudi Arabia and Belgium. The doors of the mosque were made from timber imported from the Philippines.

It is said that the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque can accommodate up to 3,000 people at a time.

 

Is that a gold dome?

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The gold dome is one of the distinguish feature of the mosque

Yes it is!

Made of pure gold, the gold domes are one of the most prominent features of the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque.

The domes contain 3.3 million fragments of Venetian mosaic, over a surface of 520m².

Apart from the gold dome, another exquisite feature of the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque is the main minaret. It reaches a height of 52 metres, offering a great view of the city.

 

Why is there a boat in the middle of the lake?

In the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque courtyard, you can see a ceremonial barge or mahligai.

The ceremonial barge is placed in the middle of an artificial lagoon on the banks of the Brunei River at Kampong Ayer.

It is a replica of a 16th century royal barge of Sultan Bolkiah, who was the 5th ruler of Brunei.

The royal barge was used by the then Sultan in his maritime exploits in the old days.

Completed in 1967, the barge was built to commemorate the 1, 400th anniversary of Nuzul Al-Quran (also known as Quran Revelation Day). It was also once used for Quran reading competitions.

 

Can a non-muslim visit the mosque?

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Remember to remove your footwear and dress appropriately when visiting the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque

Of course!

Visitors are allowed to visit the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque during non-praying time. The mosque is open from Saturday to Wednesday from 8.30 am to noon, 1.30 to 3 pm and 4.30 to 5.30 pm and closed on Thursday and Friday.

So, if you plan on visiting the Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque, remember to remove your footwear and dress appropriately!

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Innovation Space for Digital Nomads in Kuching

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Our internet connection here in Sarawak might not be optimal yet, but that hasn’t stopped us from opening innovation spaces for start-up communities and digital nomads.

Innovation space has become a big thing in Malaysia, particularly Kuching with many start-ups communities and digital nomads starting to grow and flourish.

With aspiring Digital Nomads in mind, KajoMag has listed the innovation spaces available in Kuching.

 

1. iCube Innovation, ICOM Square

iCube
iCube at ICOM Square offers various programs and services (Picture source: iCube facebook page)

Probably one of the first few innovation centers to ever be established in Kuching, iCube has welcomed digital nomads and start-up communities of all kinds.

Among the facilities offered by iCube are open work spaces or offices, meeting rooms and a pantry.

Services offered by iCube also include courier and dispatch service, business registration address, advertising, branding and corporate ID, accounting, auditing and legal advisory as well as printing and design.

iCube also offers numerous seminars, programmes and talks for the public featuring digital related topics.

iCube is open from 8 am to 6 pm on weekdays.

Check out their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/icubeinno/ or their website: http://www.icubeinnovation.com.my/ to find out what is new with iCube.

 

2. TEGAS Digital Innovation Hub, ICOM Square

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I was not kidding about the bean bags in Tegas Digital Innovation Hub (Picture source: TEGAS facebook page)

TEGAS Digital Innovation Hub was launched by the Sarawak government in 2017 as a means to encourage start-up communities to flourish and grow.

Located at ICOM Square, TEGAS (an acronym for Tabung Ekonomi Gagasan Anak Bumiputra Sarawak) looks like a mini Google office with its colourful bean bags and open working space.

Among the facilities that you find at TEGAS are a working space, sky booth (private booth), event space, conference room, sound production room and a 3D printer station.

Ranging from the price of RM8 (per day) to RM40 (per week) and RM150 (per month), TEGAS is open from 9 am to 6 pm on weekdays.

To know more about TEGAS, check out their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/TEGASdigital/ or their website: https://www.innovatesarawak.com/

 

3. Borneo 744, Jalan Semangat

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Borneo 744 has five blocks for various events and programs (Picture source: Borneo 744 Facebook page)

Once upon a time, I came across Borneo 744 by accident while driving aimlessly around on a Saturday afternoon.

Borneo 744 is one of the hottest spots for start-up communities to work and network with each other.

It is a community friendly space that provides a co-working space, exhibitions, innovation hubs, seminars or workshops for people.

Usually during the weekend, Borneo 744 will organise seminars (sometimes for free) often relating digital marketing courses for the public.

Borneo 744 is open daily from 12 pm to 10 pm.

To learn more, check out their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/BORNEO744/  or their website: http://borneo744.com/

 

4. Digital Economy Hub (DEH), Onejaya Mall

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The Digital Economy Hub organising robotics programs and competitions for students  (Picture source: Digital Economy Hub facebook page)

If you haven’t tried out 3D-printing yet, then you might want to check out DEH at Onejaya Mall.

Initiated by FAME International Group, DEH is established as a center for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematic (S.T.E.A.M) and commercial application.

Spanning 1,022 square meters, among the cool stuff DEH features are a 3D printing lab, Makers Lab, Fabrication Lab, Training Area, robotic arms lab, robotic installation and programming as well as a Virtual Reality (VR) studio and high WiFi coverage.

DEH is open from 9.30 am to 7 pm and is closed every Tuesday.

To know more about DEH, check out their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/dehmalaysia/

 

5. Saradise Innovation Space, Jalan Song

Located at Brighton Square of Jalan Song, the Saradise Innovation Space is relatively new.

Saradise also offers courses such as robotics and 3D printing.

Located at Saradise Kuching, the innovation centre is surrounded by business centres and a handful of coffee shops.

Saradise Innovation Space is open from 9 am to 5 pm on weekdays.

To know more, check out their website at http://www.saradise.my/innovation-space/

 

6. Last but not least…

Sarikei Innovation Centre (SIC), Sarikei:

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The Sarikei Innovation Centre of what used to be an old district building (Picture source: Sarikei Innovation Centre facebookpage)

For those in Sarikei, do check out SIC at Jalan Nyelong.

With its classic colonial architecture, the Sarikei Innovation Centre is not your typical innovation hub centre.

The SIC building used to be the district office building, thus making it a great place to visit as it oozes with history.

The SIC is open from 8.30 am to 5.30 pm on weekdays.

To know more, check out https://www.facebook.com/sarikeiinnovation/

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KajoPicks: Top Korean Drama Series With Deeper Messages

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(Picture source: Pixabay)

We all love Korean drama series for their fantastic plots and characters.

While some might love them because of their favourite actors or actresses, other might be into them because of their gripping plots.

Since there are too many Korean drama series out there, we thought you might need some recommendations on which series to binge watch in one weekend.

This Kajo-list features some of the series that not only have great plots but deliver deeper messages through its stories.

  1. Cross (16 episodes)

The medical scene has never looked darker than in this Korean drama series.

It tells the story of a young doctor plotting revenge against an illegal organ trader who murdered his father. This is because his father has a rare blood type thus making his organs valuable for organ transplants.

However, things are not as simple as tracking the bad guy down, injecting him with some dangerous medicine and leaving him to die. He soon finds out that the illegal organ trading business goes deeper, involving people that he did not expect.

While the revenge plot and near-death scenes are enough to leave you hyperventilating, Cross highlights illegal organ trading among the poverty ridden people.

  1. Misty (16 episodes)

Misty is a combination of Scandal and Sherlock Holmes. This drama series features a strong, intelligent anchor woman thrown into a murder scandal involving her ex-boyfriend/lover. Having been charged with murder, her still-in-love-with-yet-distant lawyer husband defends her.

It has a brilliant plot that weaves in the main character’s scandalous affair with her work as a media person.

Superficially, Misty looks like a story of rekindling lost love. But it highlights the restriction on media freedom in uncovering stories to reveal the truth.

  1. Black Knight: The Man Who Guards Me (20 episodes)

In Korean culture, a ‘black knight’ means a guy who takes a shot of alcohol on your behalf. But if you expect this series to be about binge-drinking, think again.

Black Knight is about a businessman (who seems to have way too much money to spend) reconciling with his childhood crush, a travel agent. Their love story spans over 200 years as they were also lovers in their past lives.

He set out to save a town from the brink of being destroyed to be developed into high-end apartments and stores with her help.

Set in modern Korea, this drama series takes on the issue of conserving old traditional buildings to preserve culture.

  1. Mother (16 episodes)

I challenge anyone to watch this Korean drama series without shedding any tears!

Mother is an adaptation from a Japanese series of the same name. This Korean drama series tells how ornithologist Kang Soo Jin rescued a girl, Kim Hye Na, who was being abused by her mother and boyfriend. To cover her identity, she posed as the child’s mother.

While the story may be tear-jerking, it highlights the issue of domestic abuse against children. Hye Na’s on-point portrayal as an abused child captures the emotion of a defenseless child secretly pleading for help while at the same time putting up a brave front as she faces daily abuse from her mother and her boyfriend.

As a stranger, Soo Jin’s ability to recognise child abuse and take action is what society should do for abused children.

  1. Bad Guys 2: City of Evil (16 episodes)

The real reason why I get hooked on this series was because I really liked the first Bad Guy series.  (cough Park Hae Jin)

So, naturally, I thought the second one should be as good, if not better.

With a team of originally seven people (then three), Bad Guys 2 explores the corruption of those in power. Among those involved are prosecutors, politicians, the police force, chaboels and gangsters.

Filled with well-choreographed fight scenes, this series is the definition of ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’.

  1. Revolutionary Love (16 episodes)

Don’t be deceived by the title. Revolutionary Love might sound like your typical sappy love story, but it actually explores the theme of employees and labour rights.

It features a sheltered chabeol heir who falls in love with a poor girl who has too many part-time jobs.

Through her and his reluctant – also poor -best friend, he soon realises his father’s unjust treatment of the employees. Soon, he begins to fight for the employees rights.

Anybody who has experience working for a company with bad policies and bosses can relate.

  1. Witch’s Court (16 episodes)

Witch’s Court is a Korean drama series that I truly appreciate – it does not feature the typical optimistic and cheerful female lead.

The lead character is unique because she is the anti-hero type. Known to be devious, she eventually learns to be compassionate as she helps sexual victims.

It highlights victims of sexual crimes and how often they go unnoticed.

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Iconic Landmarks in Pontianak That You Should Visit

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If you just happen to find yourself having to spend only a day in Pontianak, which of its iconic landmarks would you visit?

For those who might have a hard time deciding where to go, just follow this Kajo-worthy list on where to go in Pontianak so that you don’t miss out a lot on its history and culture.

  1. Visit Rumah Radakng

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    Rumah Radakng is the largest replica house of the Dayak Kanayatn community in Kalimantan. (Photo credit www.flickr.com/baka_neko_baka)

Rumah Radakng is one of the top iconic landmarks in Pontianak. Constructed by the city government from ironwood, Rumah Radakng is a replica of the traditional house of the Kanayatn Dayak community in Kalimantan.

Standing at 7 meters in height, 8 meters in width and 138 meters long, Rumah Radakng is the biggest traditional house in Indonesia.

  1. Try coffee at Warung Kopi Asiang

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Coffee lovers would appreciate this humble yet vibrant local cafe that serves good coffee (Picture source from Kompas.com)

This local cafe deserves a spot in this list of iconic landmarks to visit in Pontianak due to its humble yet vibrant atmosphere.

According to locals, Warung Kopi Asiang at Jalan Merapi is the best place to get your daily caffeine intake. Open since 1958, the cafe is a popular hangout spot especially during breakfast.

While there, you can order coffee with milk and sugar, or only with sugar or just plain black. Aside from that, you may also order food to go along with your coffee such as half boiled eggs or an assortment of buns and cakes.

  1. Visit the Equator Monument

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    The Equator Monument in Pontianak built to mark the division between the North and South hemispheres. (Photo credit www.flickr.com/Stefan Krasowski.)

The Equator Monument is next on the list of iconic landmarks to visit in Pontianak because it is the only city that sits on the equator.

According to the Wonderful Indonesia website, the shadowless sunlight occurs here twice a year as the sun reaches its zenith on the Vernal Equinox (March 21st-23rd), and the Autumnal Equinox (September 21st-23rd).

  1. Visit Singkawang

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The parade of Tatung occurs during Chap Goh Meh month.

While Singkawang is not exactly a landmark in Pontianak, it would be a shame not to visit this unique town.

A peaceful town, another top thing to do while in Pontianak is to visit Singkawang. It is best visited during the Chap Gog Meh celebration.

Singkawang is located about 150 km from Pontianak and you may reach there in just under four hours by bus. When approaching the town, you will notice a lot of small temples along the road.

Typically, local Buddhist residents will pray at their respective temples before Chap Goh Meh.

On the day itself, a Tatung parade will take place.

  1. St Joseph Cathedral

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St Joseph Cathedral is the largest church in Pontianak

Currently the biggest Catholic cathedral in Pontianak, the beautiful interior of the cathedral is really a sight to see.

The original cathedral was said to be built in 1908 but was demolished in 2011 to build a bigger one to accommodate more people.

  1. Mujahidin Grand Mosque

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Located at Jalan Ahmand Yani, the mosque is quite visible from the main road

Built in 1974, this recently renovated mosque is the largest in West Kalimantan as it can hold up to 1,000 people.

Located at Jalan Ahmand Yani main road, the mosque is pretty accessible and easy to spot due to its grand architecture.

The mosque’s distinct features are its four minarets covered with gold on top, so it is easy to spot from the main road.

  1. State Museum of Pontianak

This should be on the list of iconic landmark to visit in Pontianak because where else could you know everything about the city if not the museum?

  1. Pusat Souvenir Pontianak

     

    A visit to Pontianak would not be complete if you are to end your trip without making a stop at Jalan Pattimura.

    As one of the list of iconic landmarks in Pontianak, the souvenir centre is a pit stop for those who want to buy gifts such as traditional costumes, snacks and even accessories.

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Kajo-worthy Festivals to look forward to in Sarawak

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Depending on which part of Sarawak you visit, no trip is complete without catching one or all of its many festivals that show what a truly diverse place the Land of the Hornbills is.

If you are planning a trip to any part of Sarawak, just follow this Kajo-worthy check list on upcoming festivals.

  1. Kuching

One of the main highlight during the RWMF is the drum circle
RWMF is one of the most iconic festivals in Sarawak where the drum circle is among the event highlights.

As the capital city of Kuching, visitors can expect to see lots of festivals happening all year round there.

However, one of the most talked about festivals in Sarawak is the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) taking place annually at the Sarawak Cultural Village (SCV).

During the three-day festival, you will be surrounded by heaps of world music in the Borneo rain forest as you can attend music workshops during the day and the full on concert at night.

This year’s RWMF will take place from July 13th to 15th.

Other annual festivals in Sarawak happening in Kuching include the Sarawak Regatta, World Harvest Festival and the Blue Lake Festival in Bau.

  1. Serian

When participating in the Padawan Raftt Safari, participants are required to build their own bamboo raft
Participants are required to build their own bamboo rafts in the Padawan Raft Safari.

If you love rafting, then the Padawan Raft Safari is perfect for you to show off your rowing (and building) skills.

Held in Padawan since 2004, the bamboo rafting competition typically takes about three-and-a-half hours to complete.

During the competition, competitors cruise down the river from Kampong Annah Rais, Kampong Temurang and Kampong Danu.

Expect to be mesmerized by the surrounding lush green scenery while rowing down the crystal clear river.

  1. Sri Aman

Many would gather near the Lupar River to witness the occurrence of tidal waves during Benak Festival
Many would gather near the Lupar River to witness the occurrence of tidal waves during the Tidal Bore Festival.

Taking place at the Batang Lupar River, the Tidal Bore Festival or Pesta Benak is an annual event in Sri Aman.

It is a natural occurrence due to the shallow river bed causing water levels to form strong waves heading upstream during high tide.

Held since 2001,  highlights during the three-day festival include longboat paddling competitions, tidal bore surfing and water sports.

  1. Sarikei

The iconic pineapple statue in Sarikei
The iconic pineapple statue in Sarikei

It seems fitting that Sarikei would host an annual Pineapple Festival, considering it is the main supplier of pineapples in Sarawak.

Dubbed the ‘fruit basket’ for Sarawak’s central region, Sarikei town is renowned for its diverse agricultural products, especially its pineapple, which is why it was appointed the town’s fruit icon in 1998.

Besides, the pineapple themed competitions and displays you’ll see at the festival, you can also top off your visit by taking a selfie by the huge pineapple statue standing at the waterfront.

First held in 2003, you can expect to see a variety of other local fruits on display such as durians, a local olive called dabai, bananas, pepper and even livestock.

  1. Sibu

Largest mural in Sibu located at the LHDN building (Photo credit: Sibu Street Art facebook page)
The largest mural in Sibu is located at the LHDN building (Photo credit: Sibu Street Art facebook page)

The hometown of kampua and kompia does not disappoint when among the artwork featured along Sibu Town Square during the Sibu Street Art Festival are these iconic dishes.

The festival features murals and graffiti art depicting the typical livelihood of Sibu people.

This year, the festival will be held from May 5th to 12th    

Other festivals worth mentioning in Sibu is the Borneo Cultural Festival.

  1. Mukah

Kaul Festival is a traditional festival of the Melanau people
Kaul Festival is a traditional festival of the Melanau people

Kaul Festival is celebrated by the Melanau community in Mukah. It is a religious ceremony traditionally held to appease the gods of the sea, land and forest.

While the majority of modern day Melanaus are either Christians or Muslim, it is still celebrated as a social-cultural festival rather than a religious one.

Among the main highlights of the Kaul Festival is the Tibou ceremony, a 20-foot swing where young men wait on makeshift ladders to grab on to the swing and hold on for dear life as more and more people pile on.

  1. Bintulu

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The windy nature of the seaside town of Bintulu provides the perfect venue to host the Borneo International Kite Festival.

Held the first time in 2005, the annual kite fest will be held from September 28 to October 2 this year.

  1. Miri

Kelabit women donning traditional Kelabit costume and headgear
Kelabit women donning traditional Kelabit costumes and headgear.

For food lovers, Pesta Nukenen or the Bario Food Festival is one of the most anticipated festival in Sarawak.

Celebrated in the Bario Highlands, the three-day food festival showcases everything unique about the Kelabit people and their traditions.

Other festivals in Sarawak worth visiting in Miri include Borneo Jazz Festival, Miri Country Music Festival and Miri May Fest.

  1. Limbang

Buffalo race (Photo credit: Joan Blandoi)
Buffalo race (Photo credit: Joan Blandoi)
Buffalo race (Photo credit: Joan Blandoi)
Buffalo race (Photo credit: Joan Blandoi)
The buffalo race festival is an iconic festival in Limbang
The buffalo race festival is an iconic festival in Limbang

Apart from ikan tahai, Limbang is also famous for its buffaloes.

The Pesta Babulang festival is held annually by the Bisaya community in Kampung Danu and Limbang.

Highlight of this festival includes the buffalo race between teams from Sarawak, Sabah and Brunei and its beauty pageant.

Other note-worthy festivals in Limbang include the Lun Bawang Festival or Irau Aco.

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Crocodile Effigies Part 2: The Ulung Buayeh Ceremony

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Our story on Crocodile Effigies is a two-parter. To learn about the significance of crocodile effigies in the Iban mali umai ritual, click here: Crocodile Effigies Part 1: The Iban mali umai ritual

Reptiles, from the smallest little cicak to the most fearsome Bujang Senang, have always provoked varying degrees of fear and awe. The crocodile, in particular, has played a key role in riverine cultures around the world, from the crocodile-headed god Sobek in Ancient Egypt to modern day Goa where it is still worshipped in a ritual called mannge thapnee.

In Sarawak, earthen crocodile effigies were a tradition among the local communities, most notably the Iban and the Lun Bawang although their purposes differ from each other.

While the Iban community used baya tanah (mud crocodile effigies) to protect their crops from pests, the Lun Bawang community moulded the effigies – ulung buayeh – to celebrate successful head hunting trips.

A pair of male and female crocodile effigies at Fort Alice
A pair of male and female crocodile effigies at Fort Alice.

The Crocodile as a mark of heroism

Even though headhunting is typically associated with the Iban community, it was also common among the Lun Bawangs during the pre-Brooke era.

Crocodiles effigies were made to celebrate and publicise a warrior’s heroic feat during his headhunting expedition which was significant for both the upper classes and the common classes in the Lun Bawang community.

In the old days, the Lun Bawang community was segregated into three main classes – lun ngimet or nguyut bawang (leaders), lun do (commoners) and demulun (slaves).

As the statuses of leaders were hereditary, commoners had to elevate their social status by excelling in the battlefield to attain the lun mebala (renowned person) or lun mesangit (fierce warriors) labels.

After a successful expedition, the warrior would hold a ‘nuwi ulung buayeh’ ceremony (literally translated as erect the crocodile pole ceremony). The crocodile effigy was said to represent their strong and fearsome enemies.

During this time also, crocodile effigies were constructed from mud and pebbles were used as its scales and eyes. After ceramics were available, they were used instead.

Each guest would then be given tebukeh or rattan string tied with knots as a time piece.

The warrior would also cut notches from the tail end of the effigy, each notch representing every head he had taken during the head hunting trip. While doing this he will boast loudly about the details of each deed in an act called tengadan.

He would then cradle the latest trophy wrapped in leaves and lead an ukui and siga procession (name praising) around the effigy. Other men who had similarly proven themselves in previous raids would follow behind.

The men would encircle the effigy and ritually slash, spear or shoot at the effigy, affirming their prowess and bravery over a fierce and strong foe which they had defeated.

Among the highlights of the ceremony is when the warrior ‘slays’ the crocodile effigy with his blade.

During the ceremony, food and drink is served liberally to everyone, although women and children are not allowed to directly participate in the ceremony, but witness it from a distance.

As head hunting was officially banned during the Brooke administration, the practice ceased.

The rapid conversion of the Lun Bawang to Christianity also led the community to abandon the old tradition.

Crocodile effigies in other cultures

Besides publicising a warrior’s successful expedition, it is believed crocodile effigies were also used in peace agreements and acts of reconciliation between two factions.

These kinds of effigies can be found at Pa’ Berayong and Kampong Lebor, Jalan Gedong in Serian.

The Kampong Lebor crocodile effigy was made during the pre-Brooke era as a peace agreement between the native Remuns and the Brunei sultan.

It was said that a representative of the Brunei sultan was killed during an intense negotiation with the Remuns. Later, an agreement was reached and a mud effigy was made to acknowledge that peace agreement.

What makes this interesting from an archaeological point of view is that some of the soil that forms part of the effigy’s head was said to be taken from the sultan’s astana.

Meanwhile, for Kampong Tang Itong and Pa’ Gaya of the Lawas District, the effigies were said to be made as land boundary markers.

Crocodile Effigies Today

While the construction of crocodile effigies were closely associated with headhunting, presently it is mostly performed in opening ceremonies of important festivals.

Honoured guests are supposed to place a blade on the neck of the crocodile to symbolise head cutting, in the same way we cut ribbons today.

 

 

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The Parade of the Tatung during Chap Goh Meh in Singkawang

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In Sarawak (or Malaysia in general), there’s a cute tradition where young bachelorettes throw oranges into the river during Chap Goh Meh in the hopes of finding true love – hopefully by the following year.

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Chap Goh Meh is celebrated after the 15th or last day after Chinese New Year or Imlek

Chap Goh Meh in the Hokkien dialect translates to “the 15th night of Chinese New Year”. It is also known as the Chinese Valentine’s Day, but usually see families and friends gather together for dinner together as it is the last day of the Lunar New Year.

In Singkawang, a town located in West Kalimantan, Indonesia, you might find Chap Goh Meh being celebrated somewhat differently.

For the locals there, Chap Goh Meh is kind of a big deal as it is a truly unique event that reflects the culture and community here.

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A 178-meter long dragon figure paraded during the Chap Goh Meh procession

Before I elaborate more on what I saw during my brief four-day stay in West Kalimantan, this sort of celebration is not for the faint of heart (though I think James Wan might be inspired for his next thriller).

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The Chinese New Year – also known as ‘Imlek’ – is when the local Chinese community believes the gods will gather together in Singkawang.

There are no direct flights to Singkawang, so you have to fly to Pontianak which is 145 km away. After reaching Pontianak, the capital of West Kalimantan, you have to travel three to four hours by bus to get there.

With 70% of the population being of Chinese descent, Singkawang’s Chinese community is predominantly made up of the Hakka clan, followed by the Teochew, while the rest are Malays and Dayaks.

Enjoying the procession of the 565 Tatung

The festivities in Singkawang were already in full swing on Feb 11 as people began to crowd the streets hoping to get a glimpse of the 565 ‘Tatung’ or shaman, the highlight of the Chap Goh Meh procession.

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The parade of the 565 ‘Tatung’ or shaman, the highlight of the Chap Goh Meh procession.

Known as the ‘City of the Thousand Temples’, you will pass various temples of different sizes and structures every few meters as you approach Singkawang from Pontianak. It is not a surprise then that a large number of Tatungs will come and participate in the procession representing their temples and gods.

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The Tatung perform unbelievable stunts to the astonished crowd.

The Tatung usually begin to prep themselves the day before the festival. Their preparations usually involve them going into trances at their respective temples, each temple dedicated to a different god.

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While some were dressed in elaborate and colourful traditional Chinese warrior costumes, others were in traditional Dayak outfits with steel rods piercing their cheeks while they waved their swords in the air.

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During the Tatung ritual, the participants – in a trance – perform unbelievable stunts such as stepping on swords, piercing rods and swords into their cheeks, as well as cutting themselves with knives without sustaining any injuries or shedding any blood.

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Just to prove that their knives and swords are real and sharp, some perform demonstrations where they cut a variety of objects, from plastic cups to vegetables.

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Photo-taking is a must during this truly unique event.

On top of that, some Tatung performed bloody feats like biting the neck off a live chicken. According to our tour guide, a chicken was used since 2017 was the Lunar Year of the Rooster. (I briefly imagined what would end up being sacrificed in the Year of the Dog.  Thankfully, I was told that dogs had been prohibited for use in the festival thanks to outraged animal lovers all around.)

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A pilgrim praying during the parade of the Tatung.

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Planning a visit to the ‘City of the Thousand Temples’?

Being in the ‘City of the Thousand Temples’, it was a shame that I did not get to visit some, let alone learn a story behind each one or even what gods were worshiped there.

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This gave me an excuse to come back and visit Singkawang for Chap Goh Meh again next year, though I have to remember to book my accommodation at least three months ahead. As I understand it, the motels and hotels are usually fully booked during that time of the year.

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I was warned, however, that prices for accommodations might still double during this period even if you book early.

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With Chap Goh Meh happening once a year, Singkawang is definitely worth a trip for the adventurous.

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