‘Everybody can swing’: Sibu’s giant itut returns for BCF 2026

Standing 50 feet tall, Sibu's iconic 'itut' giant swing is positioned at Dataran Tun Tuanku Bujang Phase 1, preparing for a trial run ahead of the Borneo Cultural Festival (BCF) 2026. The traditional Melanau swing will be tested on August 30, before opening to the public during the festival, with safety as the utmost priority, according to itut liaison officer Freddie Chua. This year's Itut slogan is 'Everybody can swing,' emphasizing inclusivity.

The Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) has entrusted the management of this year's Itut to the Kampung Nangka Melanau Welfare Association. The logs used to construct the giant swing were sourced from Kampung Banyok. The itut will be available for public use from 7pm to 10pm throughout BCF 2026, which runs from September 3 to 12. Participants will be lifted by designated crew members, and the entire operation will be closely supervised to ensure safety measures.

Last year's Itut successfully attracted 2,288 visitors, surpassing the original target of 2,000 participants and earning SMC a spot in the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR). With the slogan 'Everybody can swing,' this year's Itut is once again expected to be a prominent highlight at BCF 2026.