Closeup of damage to the pole.
SIBU: Irresponsible individuals have damaged the wooden structure meant to be used to erect the ‘Itut’ (swing) at Sibu Town Square Phase I.
The ‘Itut is of the distinctive features for this year’s Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF).
When contacted, Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) deputy chairwoman Rogayah Jamain said the damage to the structure was discovered yesterday morning by some members of ‘Persatuan Kebajikan Melanau Kampung Nangka Sibu’ (PKMKNS), who are responsible to erect the ‘Itut’.
“A police report has been lodged and I want the culprit to feel the heat,” she told The Borneo Post.
However, it was uncertain at this point of time, whether it was the work of vandals or others.
Rogayah said to prevent recurrence of such irresponsible act, the council has beefed up security.
She also mentioned that SMC would assist the association to get new wooden structure to replace the damaged ones.
Meanwhile, PKMKNS secretary Mondari Manjat was saddened to learn about the incident more so, that it happened just days before they were supposed to erect the ‘Itut’.
“We have arranged for the ‘Itut’ to be erected on July 18 but sadly, the structure has been damaged by someone.
“We will discuss with Puan Rogayah to discuss on getting new wooden poles and hope to have the structure erected before the start of BCF,” Mondari said.
A close up view of the two wooden poles noted of few deep cuts.
Besides the BCF Arch, ‘Itut and the grand procession parade are among the distinctive features for BCF 2017.
The festival will be held here from July 20 till 29.