Note: Apologies for the poor piccies quality. I shot them using my spy camera.

Newly registered Persatuan Warisan Sarawak KL had successfully organised its first ever Hari Raya get together with the Chief Minister of Sarawak, Pehin Seri Datuk Patinggi Haji Abdul Taib Mahmud. The Hari Raya open house which took place at 7.30pm on Wednesday night, was aimed to gather all Sarawakians residing in West Malaysia especially those around the Klang Valley region.

The CM arrived at half past eight, excitedly cheered by homesick Sarawakians.

The arrival was led by Sarawak traditional dancers.

CM Taib took time to greet the crowd.

Pehin Seri was accompanied by Datuk Amar Alfred Jabu, deputy CM.

Also present was Datuk Dr Muhammad Leo Toyad, Datuk Seri Sulaiman Rahman Taib, Datuk Douglas Uggah and many other VIPs.

The association’s early estimate was 1000 odd Sarawakians but last night’s turnout was more than 2000 people which had far exceeded the organiser’s initial expectation.

After listening to ceremonial speeches by the VIPs, guests were invited to feast on the Sarawakian delicacies.

The open house showcased food from Sarawak’s flair such as the famous kek lapis Sarawak,

sate manok (chicken satay),

kolo mee,

laksa sarawak,

umai,

steamed rice wrapped in buan leaves (sungkoi tungkus, in Bidayuh),

salted terubok,

manuk pansuh (chicken cooked in bamboo) – see the Bidayuh version of asam siok here,

kacang mar chicken,

and tapioca shoots.

When I spoke to the organiser, there was concern that the food would not be able to feed the big crowd as the preparation estimate of each menu were to cater for 300 people. At the end of the day, there was enough for everybody.  In fact, there were some leftovers.

I didn’t want to miss it for the world and took the rare opportunity to pose with the CM himself. As a conclusion, it was a great night! Well done to Warisan Sarawak for the successful event.