Miri to host inaugural Indigenous Exchange Festival (IXF) in September

Miri is set to host the inaugural Indigenous Exchange Festival (IXF) from September 12 to 14.

The event is a three-day event dedicated to providing a global platform for Indigenous communities to celebrate their culture, identity, and creativity.

It is spearheaded by the Tuyang Initiative, with the highlight being the Indigenous cultures from Borneo and beyond.

According to Sarawak Tribune, the Indigenous Exchange Festival features a rich program encompassing conversations, creative showcases, and immersive cultural experiences.

Attendees can expect to engage with diverse disciplines including dance, music, visual art, tattoo, film, poetry, heritage, and a traditional tamu (market).

The festival will also include keynotes and fireside sessions for discussions on issues relevant to Indigenous communities.

Notable participants include Kalimantan dancer Eko Supriyanto, Taiwanese artist Yosifu Kacaw, Dusun singer Velvet Aduk, sape’ master Mathew Ngau Jau, and filmmakers Nadira Ilana and Sarah Lois Dorai.

Submissions for Indigenous creatives are currently open, and early bird tickets, priced from RM50 are available until August 1.

More information is available at http://www.ixfest.com.

About the Tuyang innitiative

The Tuyang Initiative is a Miri-based social enterprise dedicated to empowering Borneo’s Indigenous cultural custodians. They aim to integrate these communities into the Creative and Cultural Industries, ensuring fair livelihoods and the continuity of their heritage.

Through cultural content creation, creative development, and community empowerment, Tuyang helps Indigenous artists and practitioners share their traditions like music, crafts, and storytelling on their own terms. They bridge traditional wisdom with modern platforms, advocating for Indigenous leadership and equitable benefit-sharing, making sure these invaluable cultures are visible, vital, and celebrated.

News source: Sarawak Tribune