MUKAH (April 21): The younger generation, particularly of the Melanau community, has been urged to preserve and carry forward the legacy of ‘Kaul’, a festive tradition that embodies unity, cultural identity, and environmental reverence.

Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah emphasised that Pesta Kaul is not just an annual celebration, but a deeply rooted cultural expression of gratitude and harmony with nature.

“Kaul represents our heritage and the profound relationship between the Melanau people and the environment,” she said in her speech at the Pesta Kaul Oya sub-district celebration, held at Tapak Kaul, Pantai Kuala Hilir Oya, yesterday.

“This reflects how we have preserved identity across generations,” she emphasised.

The Dalat assemblywoman highlighted ongoing development projects tied to the Kaul celebration, including the ‘Lebuk Kaul Oya’ and Batang Oya River Corridor, which were poised to enhance the area’s appeal as a cultural and tourism destination.

She also shared updates on key development projects, including the Kuala Hilir Oya coastal erosion project which was completed in November 2023, spearheaded by the federal Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability at a cost of RM14.48 million.

Fatimah also revealed that the RM4 million extension project for Kampung Kuala Hilir, Oya is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of this year, under the Rajang Delta Development Agency (RADDA).

“Further development of the Pesta Kaul site itself is also in the pipeline, and the project consultant has already been appointed,” she remarked.

Estimated at RM14 million and led by RADDA, she said the initiative would feature a covered main hall and stage, viewing decks, ‘glamping’ sites, beach games courts, alfresco dining areas, and more.

Present at the event were Mukah Resident Datu Kueh Lei Poh, Dalat District officer Mathew Hubert, and community leaders Penghulu Pawi Ramli and Temenggong Hendi Suhai.