MIRI: A total of 310 participants have confirmed their participation in the statelevel Ngepan Iban Symposium (SNI) 2022, while a dinner in conjunction with the symposium is expected to be attended by 700 guests. This was confirmed by 2022 Sarawak State Level Ngepan Iban (SNI) Symposium Committee chairman Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil during the final committee meeting held at the old Miri City Council (MCC) building on Saturday.

SNI 2022 which takes place on Feb 10 and 11 at Pullman Hotel Miri will include an academic paper presentation by four speakers.

“There are four topics that will be discussed by 16 panellists who have experience or academic knowledge in the field during the two-day programme.

“There will be 25 stalls selling and displaying various craft products related to ‘ngepan’ and Iban culture that will be run by entrepreneurs from Miri, Bintulu, Sibu, Kapit and Kuching,” he said.

Penguang said an exhibition on vintage ‘Ngepan Iban’ will also be held throughout the twoday symposium.

In addition, a collection of items related to Iban culture such antique copper pieces and ‘Pua Kumbu’ will also be on display for the younger generation to view and appreciate, he explained.

Penguang, who is Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government will be officiating the event on Feb 10, while the closing ceremony will be graced by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.

SNI 2022 will also be enlivened with various performances such as ngajat, nimang, bepantun, bejawang, bekuntau, gendang pampat, gendang and pangkung tingging.

Meanwhile, the Keling/ Kumang and Ratu Ngepan Iban Symposium 2022 competition which will be held during the dinner.