Location : Museum Balanga, Kota Palangkaraya, Kalimantan Tengah, Indonesia.
As with most cultural celebrations in Borneo, Isen Mulang was no different in the need to choose a ‘King’ and ‘Queen’ for the celebration. But here they did not just stroll the catwalk to show off their costumes. They had to present a dance as well backed by their own team of musicians from each competing district. Lots of team work.
Perhaps, the organiser should seriously consider increasing the size of the stage for future events. Some bigger teams were hard up for space as we noticed the frustrations of the musicians struggling for room in the later events. Speakers and the unnecessary TV on the stage were taking up precious floor space. Instead of the TV, somewhere away from the stage, the organiser should have set up an outdoor projector screen for the comfort of the crowd instead of cramping around the small stage. The stage lighting was a little disappointing too for photo and video shooting. More budget needed for this event if Kalteng is aiming for the international market. Nevertheless, we enjoyed the opening of Isen Mulang with the colours, music and dance.

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Also please check out our posts on
- Part 1 : Street Parade
- Part 3 : Lomba Balugu
- Part 4 : Balanga Museum
- Part 5 : Lomba Besei Kambe
- Part 6 : Lomba Jukung
- Part 7 : Lomba Sepak Sawut
- Part 8 : Lomba Karungut Putra
- Part 9 : Lomba Masakan
- Part 10 : Lomba Habayang Gasing
- Part 11 : Lomba Tari Pendalaman
- Part 12 : Free & Easy in Palangka Raya