Rhythm of the Pinnacles
by Meges Laoi
Mulu has always been a source of uncontainable joy and exuberance for the artist, a place where the spirit feels both uplifted and at home. Every time they are immersed in its enchanting atmosphere, the landscape seems to hum with life, a symphony of sights, sounds, and light that stirs the soul. The Pinnacles, towering and majestic, rise dramatically from the surrounding forest, their jagged silhouettes softened and accentuated by drifting clouds and shifting sunlight.
As the light dances across the limestone formations, shadows and highlights play in a rhythm that seems almost musical—an invisible pulse that resonates deep within the artist. It is a rhythm that cannot be captured in words, only felt, a harmony of nature’s raw power and delicate beauty. In these moments, Mulu becomes more than a landscape; it transforms into a living, breathing entity, a source of inspiration and wonder that continually awakens awe, creativity, and a profound sense of connection to the natural world.
About the Community
The Bidayuh are one of Sarawak’s major Indigenous communities, mainly found in the Kuching, Bau, Serian, and Padawan areas. Known for their close-knit village life, they traditionally gathered in baruk—round communal houses used for ceremonies and important discussions.
They have several distinct dialects, including Biatah, Bukar-Sadong, and Jagoi-Singai, each reflecting the diversity within the community. The Bidayuh are known for their warmth, hospitality, bamboo craftsmanship, gong music, and deep connection to the land.
Today, they continue to preserve their cultural identity while thriving in modern life, contributing to the rich multicultural fabric of Sarawak.
About the Artist
Meges Laoi is a Bidayuh multidisciplinary artist whose practice spans painting, sculpture, mixed media, and contemporary cultural expression. With 36 years of experience teaching the arts, he has guided generations of young creatives while continuously refining his own artistic voice.
In 2021, Meges was selected as a MYYLA Artist-in-Residence, a recognition that highlighted both his technical mastery and his deep commitment to nurturing Sarawak’s creative ecosystem. His work often carries the quiet strength and cultural sensibilities of his Bidayuh heritage, drawing inspiration from the land, stories, and rhythms of his community.
Today, Meges continues to explore new artistic forms while serving as an important cultural voice—bridging tradition and modernity, and celebrating the richness of Indigenous identity through his craft.