The structure for erecting the ‘Itut’ at Sibu Town Square Phase I is seen on the ground.
SIBU: The wooden structure meant to be used to erect the ‘Itut’ (swing) at Sibu Town Square Phase I has been damaged by irresponsible person(s).
The ‘Itut’ is to be one of the distinctive features of 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.
Rogayah said to prevent recurrence of such an irresponsible act, the council has beefed up security.
She also mentioned that SMC would assist the association to get new wood to replace the damaged ones.
Close-up view of the damage to the wooden pole meant to erect the ‘Itut’ at Sibu Town Square Phase I.
Meanwhile, PKMKNS secretary Mondari Manjat was sad to learn about the incident, more so as 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 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 revealed a few deep cuts.
For the record, besides the BCF Arch, the ‘Itut’ and the grand parade are among the distinctive features for BCF 2017.
The festival will be held here from July 20 till 29.
Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah is expected to officiate at the ceremony at the BCF Arch here on July 20.