KUCHING: The Sarawak Iban Kuntau Association (SIKAR) is set to make history by hosting the first-ever kuntau competition, a landmark event celebrating the traditional martial art of the Iban.
Its chairman Basil Laman Amin said that the event will run from Dec 6 to 8 at the Balai Ringin Community Service Centre, featuring 150 kuntau practitioners from across Sarawak.
“This is our very first ever kuntau competition in Borneo of which aims to preserve tradition, elevate kuntau from a cultural heritage into a potential sporting discipline, showcasing its dynamic movements and techniques.
“Through the event, it also promotes Sarawak’s rich culture while fostering sportsmanship among the younger generation,” he told Sarawak Tribune in an interview recently.
Basil said this year’s competition will exclusively feature participants from the state, but the association plans to expand the event next year by inviting participants from Sabah and even Kalimantan, Indonesia.
On the first day of the competition on Dec 6, competitors aged 7 to 30 will participate in four categories, namely solo men, group men, solo women, and group women.
“The highlight on Dec 7 will be the demonstration competition, exclusively for male participants.
“This segment will include both empty-hand techniques and weapons displays, offering a thrilling spectacle for martial arts enthusiasts,” he said.
The grand finale on Dec 8 will feature a prize presentation ceremony, presentation of the Kuntau Icon Award and a performance by renowned singer Shilla J.
“The event also concludes a closing speech by Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts (MTCP) Datuk Snowdan Lawan on that night,” he said.
Besides the competition, he said visitors can enjoy a vibrant marketplace featuring nearly 20 vendors offering crafts, tattoos, and cultural performances.
“The event is free to the public, and we welcome everyone to come and give their support to the Kuntau practitioners,” Basil said.
The event is supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts (MTCP).
Further details can be obtained from Basil at 011-40076038.
