In Gedong, a friendly visit is about to become a four-day community affair. Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka’s Berambeh di Gedong programme is scheduled for 17–20 October at Kampung Tengah Hulu, bringing reading, cultural and community activities into the village.
The name carries the mood. DBP’s report explains that the Sarawak Malay term berambeh, also recorded as berambih, can refer to staying over, visiting or spending time chatting together. It suggests an invitation to linger rather than just pass through.
Books, neighbours and a reason to gather
In its 16 October report, DBP sets out four strands: education and reading; language, literature and publishing; community participation; and services through partner networks. Sports, recreation and cultural activities also form part of the gathering.
DBP director-general Hazami Jahari, who comes from Gedong, chose the village for the programme. Partners named include the Sarawak government, UNIMAS, i-CATS and Institut Pendidikan Guru Kampus Tun Abdul Razak.
For visitors, the useful next step is to check DBP’s official programme updates before travelling. The report gives the overall dates, rather than a complete timetable for every activity.
There is history beyond the programme
Gedong also appears in the Sarawak Museum’s account of the state’s archaeological work. The museum identifies it among archaeological sites alongside Santubong and Bukit Sandong.
That gives the place a historical context beyond one weekend gathering. It does not mean a dig is taking place during Berambeh di Gedong, or that archaeological findings from another site can simply be attached to this village.
The museum says systematic excavations in Sarawak began in 1948 and have covered more than 50 sites. Gedong belongs within that wider landscape of research, even as this particular visit centres on living community life.
For now, the invitation is much simpler than an expedition: head to the right village, check the activity times, and leave enough time for a conversation. In a programme called Berambeh, rushing straight back out would rather miss the point.
Sources & further reading
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