tuyang
/too-yahng/
noun
buddy, a person with whom one has a bond of mutual affection
word origin: kenyah
Get to Know Us
The Tuyang Initiative is a cultural & creative agency based in Miri, Sarawak (Borneo - Malaysia) dedicated to championing the empowerment of Borneo’s Indigenous cultural custodians by integrating them meaningfully into the Creative and Cultural Industries.
Through innovation, strategic partnerships, capacity-building, and on-the-job experiences, the initiative helps Indigenous communities lead their own cultural continuity efforts—while building sustainable livelihoods rooted in identity and tradition.
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Uphold & Preserve
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Promote Authentic Representation
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Ensure Continuity
* Uphold & Preserve * Promote Authentic Representation * Ensure Continuity
Our Solutions
Product Development
We design and deliver unique cultural projects that showcase the stories, art, music and traditions of Indigenous communities in Borneo and beyond. From traditional music performances and storytelling sessions to contemporary art collaborations, each project is rooted in respect and authenticity, while adapting to new audiences and platforms.
Capacity Building
We believe in creating genuine, sustainable opportunities for Indigenous knowledge bearers, elders, youth and creatives. Through workshops, mentorships, and community-led training, we equip Indigenous artists and cultural practitioners with the skills, resources and networks they need to grow and succeed — while staying true to their cultural identities.
Cultural Exchange & Impact
We collaborate with like-minded partners — from festivals and cultural institutions to brands and researchers — to co-create respectful cultural experiences and exchanges. Our partnerships are built on trust, mutual benefit, and the shared goal of raising awareness, respect and support for Indigenous communities.
Cultural Custodians
whom we have learned from, worked and grown with.
Indigenous Exchange Festival 2025, a powerful new gathering that centers people and culture at its core. For the first time, indigenous creators, thinkers, and cultural thought leaders from around the region are coming together to share, perform, and inspire. This is where deep traditions meet bold ideas, where connection turns into action.
As we create cultural spaces for indigenous music, movement, art, and conversation to shine unapologetically, we invite you to be part of this journey.
Coming Soon
Our Latest Feature
"Bayu Kusun Tana’" (Wind on Earth) is a compelling new body of work originally conceptualised for the Hakodate Music and Dance Festival 2024 in Japan. Rooted in the natural rhythms of the earth and inspired by indigenous cultural expressions, the piece was designed to celebrate movement, sound, and the environment. Although unforeseen circumstances prevented us from travelling to Japan that year, the project continued to evolve and mature. Through further artistic development, "Bayu Kusun Tana’" eventually found its stage at the prestigious Rainforest World Music Festival 2025, where it was officially premiered. The debut marked a significant milestone for the work, bringing together its original spirit with a renewed depth shaped by its journey.
Awards & Accreditation
In recognition of our impact, we were honoured with The Star Golden Hearts Award 2018, celebrating our commitment to community, culture, and continuity.
We are proud to be an accredited social enterprise under the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development’s Social Enterprise Accreditation (SE.B) Malaysia.
