KUCHING: There is no doubt that tradition and history reflects the life we live.
In this day and age, it is important to preserve our heritage, culture and tradition that has been passed down by our ancestors.
Ozie Tungging, a Bidayuh from Kampung Selampit, Lundu, with about 44 years of experience in traditional dancing, felt that it is his duty to defend the heritage from disappearing.
Traditional dancing is an art form that reflects who we are as an individual and the roots we come from, it portrays the life, culture and tradition of tribal people.
Starting from a young age, Ozie has been an inspiration to the new generation of traditional dancers.
Where it all began
“I’ve been in this industry for about 44 years now since secondary school. This is because of my late father was an inspiration to me.
“My late father was a traditional healer and ritual dancer in our village since before I was born. I knew one day this will become a priceless entertainment value,” he said.
Other than his late father, some of the elders in his village, who performed ritual and healing dances on occasion particularly among the Bidayuh community, have greatly influenced his journey in cultural dancing.
“When I joined the Sarawak Cultural Village, my mentors were Ramli Ali who was the resident choreographer in dancing and chief musician Narawi Rashidi, in all the cultural activities.
“Also, when I’m travelling or visiting longhouses and villages in the rural areas, some elders who are expert in cultural dances from the Iban and Orang Ulu community have greatly influenced me in my journey.”
Memorable experiences
Ozie also shared his journey of travelling the world showcasing Sarawak’s diverse ethnic dances and his memorable experiences.
“Being a cultural performer, the most memorable experience for me was when I was given the chance to lead the Sarawak cultural troupe to Monaco.
“We performed in front of Prince Albert II of Monaco at Grimaldi Royal Hall.
“Of course, I have travelled and performed in other countries in Europe and Asia such as France, Holland, Sweden, London, Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, Taiwan to name a few.”
A duty to share knowledge with the new generation
“After being involved for about 44 years as a cultural activist and with my experience in SCV before as a cultural performer and instructor, I feel it is my duty to share my knowledge and experiences with the younger generation and with those who are interested to know and learn about cultural dances, music, costumes and accessories as well.
“One of the most important things is that one must be passionate about cultural dancing,” he said.
The 56-year-old left SCV in 2001 and became serious in cultural dance activities.
In 2003, he started a cultural group called the Bung Bratak Cultural Group (BBCG) and it was once nominated for the “Best Product Service Award 2016/17” by Sarawak Convention Bureau @ BESarawak.
“Traditional dance is a vital part of our cultural heritage, and it should be inherited by our younger generation as it is a priceless value of intangible custom and tradition.
“To preserve this, cultural activities and events should be organised regularly and publicly such as awareness talks, training classes, traditional dance competitions, ethnic pageants and others.
“Such activities will attract the younger generation to participate and at the same time they will learn about their own cultural heritage.
“These are the vital ways that can help our own people to pursue the perpetuation and preservation of our own tradition, culture and heritage,” said Ozie.
Traditional dance is still relevant in modern times
For Ozie, traditional dancing is very unique as it reflects and portrays the origins of tradition, culture and heritage of tribal people that no one can duplicate.
He added, the uniqueness makes it different from modern and creative dances or performances in this day and age and has become the most talked about topic in the country’s tourism drive.
“It will sustain, for sure,” he said.
“To the new generation interested in exploring traditional dancing, our culture and tradition reflects who and what we are.
“We must know our roots even though we do not practice any traditional taboo, but the history and heritage is there for us to appreciate, perpetuate and preserve and make it as sustainable and priceless tangible or intangible tradition, cultural and heritage.
“It not only holds traditional and cultural value, but can also help contribute to the economy of an individual, community or country,” he added.
