KUCHING: The world’s longest rattan mat woven by some 400 people from the Orang Ulu community will be on display for the first time at the Amphitheatre Reservoir Park here until Friday (May 5).
Listed in the Guinness World Record as the world’s longest mat, it runs as long as 1.128km and it is the result of the collaborative effort of the people from Belaga and Baram in May last year.
Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Douglas Uggah Embas said the display was part of the pre-event activities held in conjunction with the Asean International Film Festival and Awards (AIFFA) 2017, which run from tomorrow until Saturday.
Speaking to the reporters at the mat-rolling ceremony here today, Douglas said the event was the best platform to display the mat and to introduce the world what Sarawak has to offer.
“We are not talking about the longest (mat) in Sarawak or Malaysia but the longest in the world. Besides, it was done by the people in the rural community, which makes us really proud,” he said.
“Producing traditional handicraft products are among the ways the villagers can supplement their incomes,” he added.
Meanwhile, festival director, Logan Tajang, said this year’s AIFFA 2017 will feature 16 categories that are open to all Asean filmmakers.
AIFFA, he added is biennial competition was first organised in 2013. This year will see the award show back for its third edition.
Also slated to make an appearance is superstar Donnie Yen. The IP Man star is scheduled for a meet-the-fans session at the Old Courthouse at 2pm on Saturday.
Finally, AIFFA also intends to set another Guinness World Record by holding the largest gathering of people dressed in cat costumes so everyone is encourage to show up in their finest feline fashion.