Boy's Iban Warrior Costume Lights Up Malaysia Day Celebration in JB

JOHOR BAHRU, Sept 16 (Bernama) -- Cheers erupted in Pasar Muafakat Sabah here today when a primary school pupil paraded in a Jalur Gemilang-themed Iban warrior costume produced from recycled items in conjunction with the Malaysia Day celebration.

Ten-year-old Saif Islam Abdul Rahman, from Sekolah Kebangsaan Mohd Khir Johari, strode across the mini stage with full confidence as he showed off his cardboard shield, a wooden spear and a hornbill decoration on his costume that glowed with LED lights.

The costume, produced by his 38-year-old mother, Sharifah Marina Sharif Mohammad, a housewife from Kampung Melayu Majidee, cost less than RM100 using recycled items.

"It didn't cost much. I used recycled items like bottle caps for the chain, toy skeletons as decorations and wood for the spear. I wanted to highlight the uniqueness of Sabah and Sarawak through this creation,” she told Bernama today.

Sharifah Marina, who hails from Kampung Likas, Kota Kinabalu, said she came up with the idea after her brother suggested highlighting the Sarawak people's symbol of bravery.

"My son was excited, but nervous as well. For me, this is our small contribution to enliven the spirit of Malaysia Day,” said Sharifah Marina, who now lives in Johor as her husband works in Singapore. 

Saif Islam, meanwhile, could not hide his excitement at being the star attraction.

"It felt nice wearing the Iban warrior costume. I got up early and started getting ready to come here (Pasar Muafakat Sabah) at 11 am. Super nice, hope I can take part in more competitions like this,” he said with a shy smile.

Visitor Lucinta Anak Willliam, 42, said she was impressed with the creativity displayed by the Sabah and Sarawak children, adding that they helped to boost the spirit of patriotism among the people of various races.

"When I see these children so pumped up to celebrate Malaysia Day, I feel proud because it reminds us that this country is built on our cultural diversity,”  she said.

Checks by Bernama today found that Pasar Muafakat Sabah was the focus of attention of the Sabah and Sarawak community, with the children's costume competition, sale of traditional delicacies and cultural performances pulling in the crowd.

The event, organised by the Pasar Muafakat Sabah Association, Seri Alam 2 Zone Residents’ Committee and the Sri Delima Flats UMNO Branch, showcased the spirit of unity among the community as they proudly celebrated Malaysia Day.

-- BERNAMA