Wan Junaidi (seated, second left) and Fauziah (seated, second right) pose for a photo with Chan (seated, left) and Lorna (seated, right) along with representatives from KTS Group of Companies. – Photo by Roystein Emmor
KUCHING (March 31): The sound of bamboo cannons reverberated through the festivities at the Hari Raya Aidilfitri Open House hosted by Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi at Astana Negeri Sarawak today, marking the commencement of the celebrations and preserving a cherished tradition.
Harziman Sajali, 32, the owner of the bamboo cannons and an events business operator, said the demonstration aimed to remind visitors of a time when such bamboo cannons were a hallmark of Hari Raya Aidilfitri festivities before the advent of firecrackers and fireworks.
“In the past, people played with bamboo cannons to enliven the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations. Usually, even during the fasting month, some would start playing them,” he told The Borneo Post.
A particularly unique sight during the event was Harziman’s two sons using a hairdryer to ignite the bamboo cannons, an unconventional yet effective modern approach that intrigued the public.
“Traditionally, one would have to blow into the (bamboo) cannon’s chamber to create the necessary pressure. However, this method carries significant risks.
“With modern technology, using a hairdryer generates the required hot air more safely and efficiently. In the past, blowing directly into the (bamboo) cannon could result in facial burns due to the heat from the ignited gas,” he explained.
Harziman (right) poses in a photo session with his two children and the bamboo cannons at Astana Negeri Sarawak during the event.
Elaborating on the mechanics of the bamboo cannon, Harziman said its operation relies on kerosene and compressed heated air to produce the explosive sound.
“Each bamboo cannon must be replaced after extensive use. Once it cracks or breaks, we stop using it,” he added.
He further noted that larger bamboo pieces are preferred as they produce better effects.
“However, it is becoming increasingly difficult to source large bamboo. Ideally, the length should be about five segments long. If it is too long, it becomes unsuitable,” he said, sharing that he has been playing with bamboo cannons since he was nine years old.
This year marks the second time Harziman has been invited to Astana Negeri Sarawak since Wan Junaidi was appointed as the Yang di-Pertua Negeri last year.
“Even before becoming the Head of State, Wan Junaidi frequently invited us to perform the bamboo cannon tradition for Hari Raya Aidilfitri when he was still in Parliament,” he said.
Harmizan also revealed that his business has been operating for five to six years.
“Besides bamboo cannons, I also provide canopy and event decoration services. In fact, my team handled the canopies and decorations for today’s event at Astana Negeri Sarawak,” he shared.
Exquisite cakes featuring architectural landmark designs adorned the main hall at Astana Negeri Sarawak during the event.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and his wife, Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang, along with former Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri George Chan and his wife, Datin Patinggi Dato Lorna Enan Muloon, were among the distinguished guests at the open house.
The festivities at Astana Negeri Sarawak were further enlivened by the presence of an estimated 10,000 guests, including representatives from government and non-governmental organisations, the public and private sectors, uniformed bodies, and members of the public, as well as representatives from KTS Group of Companies.
Guests were warmly welcomed by the Wan Junaidi and his family, with members of the public also receiving Raya packets.
Additionally, the Dewan Besar (main hall) at Astana Negeri Sarawak was adorned with exquisite cakes showcasing intricate designs, predominantly inspired by architectural landmarks.