BNF Continue to Attract Visitors, Today the Final Day By: Writer on-the-go - Lorena Binisol

The Borneo Native Festival (BNF) in Kuala Lumpur has been a resounding success. Over the past two days, close to 100,000 people have joined the celebration, and with today being the final day, a Sunday, even larger crowds are expected to witness the vibrant cultures of Sabah and Sarawak.

Each day has been filled with good vibes, especially as Sabahans and Sarawakians living in the nation’s capital come together to create joy and lasting memories. With delicious food, lively entertainment, and captivating cultural performances, some have even described it as “three crazy days in Pasar Seni.” The festival began with traditional showcases and gradually transitioned into modern music and dance, blending heritage with contemporary energy to create an atmosphere of pure happiness.

Kudos to Sukaseni president Raffy Syazwan and his team for once again bringing the beautiful cultures of Sabah and Sarawak to the world stage. The festival provides communities with a platform to share their traditions, food, crafts, and performances. It has quickly become one of Kuala Lumpur’s most popular cultural events, supporting local businesses while uniting people through Ka’amatan and Gawai celebrations.

beautiful vibes from day 1 till the final day

Among vendors was Fedrick Ding (31) from Tubau, Kapit, Sarawak, who blends tradition with innovation. He learned rattan craft from his mother and relatives, starting with basic skills like gathering and processing vines. Those early lessons grew into a community effort. Today he leads artisans across Tubau, Sungai Asap, Belaga, and Ulu Linau, supported by Yayasan Hasanah and the Ministry of Finance Sarawak.

Fedrick Ding at his booth promoting products from Sarawak

His first big showcase is at the BNF, where he presented stylish rattan bags rooted in tradition. The business began during the pandemic as a way for artisans to survive and express themselves. Each type of rattan carries its own strength and story, and Fedrick’s vision is to share that heritage through modern designs. For him, rattan is not just material but a living link between past and present, telling the story of resilience and artistry in his community.

Introducing Oupus Organic , Vallery Yong's products from Sabah

At 33, Raffly Langi Anak Christopher James from Betong, Sarawak, has made brewing tuak, the traditional rice wine, his life mission. With his brand Tuak Alus, co-founded with friends Timothy Tinjan and Ayden Chong, he has introduced this Sarawakian heritage drink to wider audiences, marking their third showcase at BNF.

Wilhelmina from Inanam, Sabah

Raffly’s path began during the pandemic after losing his job as a service engineer. He learned from elders and master brewers, refining his family’s recipe into Tuak Alus. For him, tuak is more than a drink. It carries stories, traditions, and identity. Inspired by how other cultures share sake or soju globally, his vision is to preserve Bornean heritage while giving it international recognition.

Today, Tuak Alus stands as both a brand and a symbol of resilience, reconnecting younger generations with their roots and celebrating Sarawakian identity on a bigger stage.

Good vibe at night

At Wilhelmina's booth selling products from Sabah

Wilhelmina Avila Beda (39) from Kg Ruminding in Inanam, Sabah, has turned her passion into a full-time career. Since 2016, she has built a brand that shares the flavours and products of Borneo with wider audiences. This year marks her second time at the BNF, where she introduces Sabah’s food and traditions to festival-goers.

Beyond BNF, she runs a booth at the mini tamu in Borneo Street, Galaxy Ampang Mall every weekend, and also caters for events. Her offerings range from traditional foods to artisanal products, each reflecting Sabah’s heritage. For Wilhelmina, success is not just about sales but about helping people appreciate the culture behind every item.

Raffy (left) with his popular Tuak Alus from Sarawak

Another Sabahan entrepreneur, Vallarry Yong, has experimented with bambangan, a local fruit from Sabah. She proved through science that it can be turned into serum and oil that are good for the skin. Her brand, Oupus Organic, offers artisan skincare from Borneo. Valerie is now promoting these products at the BNF.