By Edwin Kee
“Wow! I never knew there were so many East Malaysians here!”
“Such amazing and beautiful traditional clothing!”
“Look at the size of that thing!” (referring to the two roast pigs).
These were some of the comments overheard at the recent KaWai (Kaamatan-Gawai) celebrations at PJEFC.
There was much revelry, with over 400 people thronging the church to participate in the Harvest Festival organised by SIB-PJEFC. It was a glimpse of Revelation 7:9, where “… a great multitude… from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages…” gathered in thanksgiving to God for all His blessings throughout the year.
Before Elder Chairman Chow Chee Yan officiated the event, guests got to participate in two traditional East Malaysian games — Ting Ting (a hopscotch variant) and blowpipes, which garnered much interest as many tried their hand (or mouth, rather) at hitting the target from a distance. Needless to say, no wildlife was endangered due to the poor marksmanship on display.
Various Bornean gastronomic delights were served to hungry guests, including hinava, pucuk ubi, tuhau, bosou, and linopot, although many also made a beeline for the pair of babi golek (roast pigs).
The evening was a whirlwind of performances, with six different song and dance presentations accompanied by the plucking sounds of a ‘tapi’ (a traditional Lun Bawang musical instrument). It was certainly an eye-opening experience for many who got the opportunity to experience the lives of our brethren from Sabah and Sarawak. The lovingly constructed festive decorations around the main sanctuary and concourse lent an air of the kampong life in the midst of the city.
The evening came to a close with an open dance floor, where everybody was invited to get jiggy, Borneo-style. Many were decked in their traditional costumes, adding much pomp and colour to the entire event. Before heading home, guests were treated to yet another round of waist-expanding fare — this time round with Kek Lapis Sarawak, penjaram, and curry puffs. It was certainly a night to remember not only our family and friends who are far away in Borneo but also an opportunity to give thanks to the LORD for His goodness and sustaining grace every single day.
Get Involved
🙌 Ever worshipped God in Bahasa? Gain the experience during the BM Service and glorify Him together with the people of this language.
🛝 Whether it’s indoor or outdoor, play Ting Ting with your spouse, children, siblings, or Cell Group members as a fun way to bond.