BACHOK 7 November 2023 I A father, John Ngau, 56, from Miri, Sarawak, captivated the audience at the 13th Universiti Malaysia Kelantan Convocation Ceremony recently by donning the traditional attire of the Orang Ulu tribe, specifically the Kayan ethnic group, to celebrate the convocation day of his daughter, Christie Uyang John, 24.

He and his wife, Margret Ngau, 49, wanted to share their excitement in celebrating this historic day for their eldest child by showcasing the unique Sarawakian image of the Orang Ulu ethnic group, particularly the Kayan tribe, well-known in Sarawak.

Christie Uyang John, a graduate of the Product Development Technology programme (SBP), Faculty of Basic Industries (FIAT), UMK Jeli Campus, was deeply moved by the surprise from both of his parents.

For the sake of their beloved child, they were willing to spend RM1,000.00 on this ethnic attire set.

Christie was touched by the sudden surprise from his father because, as they say, a father's way of showing love is different from a mother's, even though he seldom expresses it, his father is always there for her.

'I am moved because my father, who has sacrificed a lot for the family all this time,' he said. According to Christie, this traditional attire has been modernized to suit any ceremonial or formal event and celebration.

Christie described his father's outfit, starting with the embroidered vest in the style of the Kayan/Kenyah tribe for men (RM180) and a man hat with Kenyalang bird feathers (RM180).

Meanwhile, his mother's outfit includes a set of women's beaded necklace accessories (RM70), a women's beaded sash (RM380), and a decorative women's headgear (RM60).