SANDAKAN: As dusk descended upon the serene bamboo pavilion crafted by UCSI University students, the Sepilok forest resumed its symphony of natural sounds. The two-day Borneo ROR Festival left participants with cherished memories, fostering connections among those who attended.
Initiated by Future Alam Borneo (FAB) in 2014, the Borneo Rhythms of Rimba (ROR) Festival was established to showcase the rich natural heritage and biodiversity of Sabah and Borneo Island, intertwining it with creative and artistic expression.
Over the past decade, the festival has expanded significantly, broadening its scope to include a diverse array of themes and content. To promote physical engagement and exploration of nature, an Adventure Zone was introduced.
Additionally, to resonate with today’s youth and the young-at-heart, a popular Music & Visuals Zone was created, featuring contemporary musicians and innovative filmmakers. In an era where global attention is directed towards sustainable development goals and the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, ROR has aimed to delve into the complex relationships between these issues and their effects on society.
Throughout the two days, ROR facilitated discussions that spanned land, sea, and communities, featuring insights from local experts and international guests from countries such as India, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, the Netherlands, the U.K., and the U.S.
In the realm of creativity, attendees had the unique opportunity to hear from artists like Ernest Zacharevic, Kenji Chai, Yee I-lann, and Pangrok Sulap, who shared their experiences in utilizing their talents to raise awareness for often-overlooked social and environmental issues.
The Music & Visuals segment showcased films from the Freedom Film Festival and the UN Climate Change Conference COP28. As night fell, the forest came alive with performances from bands making their debut on the east coast, creating a vibrant atmosphere that blended art and nature.
