By: Drs. Hamidin - Expert Group of BNPP RI

Malinau, North Kalimantan - The thunder of gongs, the rhythmic jingling of riti’ anklets worn by Dayak dancers, and the colorful display of hundreds of traditional costumes are set to once again awaken the heart of the archipelago. The 11th Irau Festival returns from October 7 to 26, 2025, coinciding with the 26th Anniversary of Malinau Regency. This year, its echoes will not only resonate along the Malinau River but across the entire nation.

This year’s festival has drawn special attention from the central government. Representing the Ministry of Home Affairs, BNPP Secretary Makhruzi and his team, accompanied by BNPP Expert Group member Hamidin, are scheduled to witness firsthand the vibrant pulse of culture in this borderland region — a region also strengthening its State Border Post (PLBN) as a symbol of North Kalimantan’s openness and progress as Indonesia’s northern gateway. Earlier, strategic issues concerning both the PLBN and the Irau Festival were discussed between the Governor of North Kalimantan, Commission II of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) led by Deddy Sitorus, and senior BNPP officials in Tarakan.

More Than a Cultural Celebration

“Irau is not just a people’s festival; it is the reflection of Malinau’s soul,” said one of the local customary leaders. The word Irau itself means “a great thanksgiving” in the Dayak Kenyah language — and indeed, for nearly three weeks, Malinau transforms into a grand stage where tradition, art, and solidarity blend in harmony.

During the festival, 11 Dayak sub-ethnic groups and 14 cultural associations will showcase their unique traditions through cultural parades, MSME exhibitions, art performances, and traditional competitions. Hundreds of dancers in intricately patterned ethnic attire will fill the streets in a colossal parade involving over 1,000 performers.

A People’s Stage — From Tradition to Pop Music

The main stage of Irau serves as a meeting point between traditional art and modern entertainment. By day, visitors can witness sacred dances such as the Lalatip Dance of the Dayak Tahol, depicting the agility of ancient warriors; the Riti Dance of Bulusu, once recognized by Indonesia’s MURI record; and the Busak Baku Dance of the Lundayeh, symbolizing harmony with nature.

By night, the Malinau sky will come alive with performances from Slank opening the event, followed by Judika, Juicy Luicy, and a monumental closing concert by Iwan Fals. This is not merely a cultural festival — it is a celebration of creativity and intergenerational unity.

The People’s Economy in the Heart of Cultural Euphoria

Irau 2025 also serves as an economic lifeline for local entrepreneurs. Over 500 micro and small enterprises will participate, displaying local crafts such as anjat (rattan bags), tampi, traditional machetes, and fish traps. Visitors will also savor local delicacies — from grilled meatballs and sosis telur to beer lumpia, alongside trendy drinks like Thai tea and Dayak drip coffee.

For small business owners, the festival is not only about profit but also pride — pride in being part of an event that brings Malinau’s name to the national stage. The local government estimates the festival’s total economic circulation to reach billions of rupiah.

A Symbol of Unity and “Miniature Indonesia”

Since its inception two decades ago, Irau has stood as a symbol of interethnic harmony in Malinau. From Kenyah to Tidung, Bulusu to Lundayeh — all coexist peacefully, upholding the slogan “Malinau as Miniature Indonesia.”

In the context of national policy, festivals like Irau play a crucial role in strengthening sociocultural resilience in border areas, aligning with BNPP’s vision to transform border regions from “backyards” into frontier centers of growth and national pride.

Records and New Aspirations

The Malinau Regency Government aims to achieve several MURI records this year — from Indonesia’s longest-running cultural festival to the largest mass traditional dance performance. Preparations have been underway for months, including the welcoming of ministry officials, ambassadors from friendly nations, and thousands of domestic and international tourists.

Amid ongoing PLBN development and efforts to enhance cross-border connectivity, the 11th Irau Festival stands as a symbol that physical and cultural progress must go hand in hand. Malinau is not only building roads and bridges — it is also connecting hearts and identities.

Lighting the Nation from the Border

When the stage lights shimmer along the Malinau River and the rhythm of Dayak gongs fills the air, the entire archipelago will know: from Indonesia’s northern frontier, a steadfast spirit continues to safeguard the essence of the nation.

Irau 2025 is not merely a cultural event — it is a manifestation of patriotism, a love born from the forests, rivers, and wisdom of borderland communities. From Malinau, Indonesia is reminded once again that the nation’s strength does not lie only in its cities, but also in the remote corners that faithfully keep the flame of tradition alive.

Notes: The 11th Irau Festival is organized by the Malinau Regency Government in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs through BNPP RI, with strong support from local MSMEs and indigenous communities. The event takes place October 7–26, 2025, in Malinau City, North Kalimantan, Indonesia.

(BNPP RI Public Relations)