The newly completed Bidayuh Cultural Centre Bau (BCCB) has officially opened, providing the Bidayuh community with a landmark facility dedicated to culture, heritage, community activities, and tourism development.
The RM9 million project was officially opened by Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Openg on June 22, 2026, following years of planning and construction.
Originally proposed in 2016, the constuction of the centre was approved in 2017, before taking close to nine years to materialize. Now that it is completed, it is expected to become one of the most significant cultural landmarks in Bau and the wider Bidayuh Belt.
The facility is located along Jalan Jambusan Lama and developed under the Projek Rakyat initiative with the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) managing it.
A Modern Venue Inspired by Bidayuh Heritage
One of the most striking features of the Bidayuh Cultural Centre is its design, which incorporates elements inspired by the traditional Bidayuh Baruk.
The Bidayuh Baruk is a circular structure historically used as a gathering place for village leaders and community discussions.
The Bidayuh Cultural Centre Bau (BCCB) includes a grand hall capable of accommodating more than 1,000 guests, making it one of the largest event venues in Bau.
Additional facilities include meeting rooms, exhibition spaces, galleries, and a canteen that will support daily operations.
The development addresses the growing demand for convention and event facilities in Bau while creating a dedicated space to showcase Bidayuh culture, traditions, arts, and history.
Beyond serving as a cultural hub, the BCCB is expected to strengthen Bau’s tourism sector as the district has increasingly positioned itself as a cultural and heritage destination.
Among its attractions are the nearby Bidayuh Cultural Village in Singai, Mount Singai, the Paku Rock Maze Park, Fairy Cave and various annual cultural festivals drawing visitors to the area.
That said, the addition of the centre will likely attract seminars, conferences, exhibitions, cultural performances, weddings, and community events, generating economic opportunities for local businesses and entrepreneurs.
In addition, the project is also expected to complement the ongoing development efforts within the Greater Bau area.
The History and Importance of the Bidayuh Cultural Centre Bau
The idea for the Bidayuh Cultural Centre Bau dates back to 2016, with the project receiving approval in 2017 as part of efforts to preserve and promote Bidayuh heritage.
Construction officially commenced in 2023 after years of planning and coordination between the Sarawak Government, local leaders, and DBNA.
Designed as both a cultural landmark and a community convention centre, the facility reflects the aspirations of the Bidayuh people to safeguard their traditions while embracing modern development.
Today, the BCCB serves as an enduring symbol of Bau’s cultural identity, ensuring that future generations can learn about, celebrate, and share the unique heritage of the Bidayuh community with visitors from across Sarawak and beyond.
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