In the quaint town of Lawas, the vibrant traditions of the Kedayan community come to life in a spectacular gastronomic showcase — the Majlis Makan Tahun Kedayan, or the Kedayan annual grand feast. This annual festival is not merely a celebration but a heartfelt endeavour to preserve the rich cultural practices of the Kedayan people.
HONOURING THE RICE YIELD
As the rice harvest season culminates, the Kedayan community gathers for a three-day extravaganza, expressing gratitude for the bountiful yield. This grand feast is not only a celebration of the present harvest but a symbolic gesture of hope for a prosperous future. It serves as a reminder to the younger generation to cherish and perpetuate the hard work and values instilled by their ancestors.
Adding a layer of significance to the opening ceremony, the festival takes a moment to acknowledge the achievements of Kedayan children who have pursued their studies overseas. Rewards will be presented to these young scholars, a testament to their dedication and a source of inspiration for others in the community.
A CULTURAL SHOWDOWN
The Majlis Makan Tahun Kedayan unfolds as a lively spectacle, featuring various competitions that highlight the cultural prowess of the community. From the melodious Kedayan language song competition to the enchanting Kedayan language storytelling competition for children, every event is a testament to the community's commitment to preserving its linguistic heritage.
The Kelupis wrapping competition adds an exciting culinary dimension, showcasing traditional food preparation skills. However, stealing the spotlight are the Kapala Kapo and Kepala Bisai competitions — a beauty pageant extravaganza that crowns the most charismatic individuals among the Kedayan women and men.
A unique highlight of the festival is the Junjung Kedayan competition, where each Kedayan village collaborates to construct traditional houses (Junjung) based on creativity and uniqueness. These architectural marvels offer a glimpse into the community's lifestyle and culinary traditions, creating a visual feast for festival-goers.
HARMONIOUS MELODIES AND CULTURAL RHYTHMS
As the festival unfolds, the air will resonate with the soulful tunes of the Kedayan Song Performance and the rhythmic beats of the Gulintangan Musical Instrument Competition. These musical expressions play a vital role in preserving the cultural identity of the Kedayan community, adding a layer of melody to the festivities.
The Majlis Makan Tahun Kedayan transcends the boundaries of a typical celebration; it is a testament to the community's dedication to preserving its roots and passing on its cultural legacy to future generations. As the vibrant colours, enchanting melodies, and rich flavours converge at Taman Awal Lawas, the Kedayan community invites all to witness the beauty of tradition and the spirit of unity in this grand feast.
