Preserving and spreading cultural identity in everyday life.

In Dong Nai province, the S'tieng community has long been renowned for its distinctive cultural features: the vibrant sounds of gongs and drums, graceful traditional dances, and exquisite brocade fabrics. Beyond preserving these traditions for themselves, the S'tieng Culture Club of Binh Phuoc province, Dong Nai, has become a "bridge" bringing this culture closer to the wider community.

Locals visit and take photos with members of the S'tieng Culture Club of Binh Phuoc at the Cu Chi Tunnels historical site in Ho Chi Minh City.

Bringing culture closer to the public.

On weekends or holidays, if you have the opportunity to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels Historical Site ( Ho Chi Minh City), in addition to visiting historical sites, many people are surprised by a cultural space of the S'tieng people being showcased there. The cultural space is decorated with many eye-catching miniature scenes, recreating the cultural and spiritual life of the S'tieng people.

From stilt houses and the space for the new rice harvest ceremony, to the image of pounding rice by hand with pestles, the resounding gongs, and the distinctive dances and music of the S'tieng people, all were skillfully displayed and performed by the members here. This is the fourth time that members of the Binh Phuoc S'tieng Culture Club have performed at the Cu Chi Tunnels Historical Site.

Mr. Nguyen Minh Tam, Deputy Director of the Cu Chi Tunnels Historical Site, shared: "Located in a convenient location, after visiting all the historical sites at the Cu Chi Tunnels, tourists can stop and experience the unique culture of the S'tieng people. This activity has received very positive feedback from visitors."

In a space rich in cultural and historical value, the resounding sound of gongs and drums creates a powerful impression, captivating visitors who listen and enjoy.

Ms. Nguyen Thanh Tam, a tourist visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels historical site, happily shared: “I really enjoyed watching the S'tieng community perform like that. This cultural tradition, which was once closely associated with the lives of the people, has been revitalized and spread so that everyone can learn about it and participate.”

“The S'tieng people's culture has many heritage items that have been recognized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. When we bring these products to friends outside the province, they are well received because they carry the distinctive flavors of the region and the culture of the ethnic minority. Having a 'place' to perform is not only about generating income for the people, but it is also a motivation for them to consciously preserve and spread the cultural features of their ethnic group.”

Mr. Nguyen Viet Doi, Vice Chairman of the People's Committee of Tan Khai Commune,
Head of the S'tieng Culture Club of Binh Phuoc Province, Dong Nai Province

Keep the flame of love for culture alive.

Although only 9 years old, Dieu Duy Linh is already an active member of the gong and drum team at the S'tieng Culture Club in Binh Phuoc. Each time he performs, he understands and is deeply moved by the unique sounds of his people. Despite his young age, Duy Linh boldly joined the club with the sole desire to keep the flame of love for his ethnic culture alive.
self.

Duy Linh shared: "Initially, it was very difficult to play, but with the guidance of the elders, I understood and was able to participate with everyone. I will try my best to learn and preserve the unique culture of my people."

Established three years ago, the S'tieng Culture Club of Binh Phuoc has become a common home for artisans, village elders, and young people who love their ethnic culture. After performances, they often gather at the village cultural center to meet, practice, exchange ideas, and organize many activities related to community life. Village elders teach the younger generation how to play gongs and drums to the rhythm of festivals; artisans pass on their weaving skills, guiding them on threads and patterns for brocade; and young people learn dances and songs to perform at festivals.

Ms. Thi Minh Kha, a member of the club, excitedly shared: "As a young person, I really enjoy being taught the dances and songs that are rich in the culture of my people by the artisans. I always try to learn as much as possible to contribute to preserving and spreading this culture."
everybody.

Domestic and international tourists alike are captivated by the traditional rice wine of the S'tieng people.

Beyond just performing and teaching, the S'tieng Cultural Club of Binh Phuoc plays a crucial role in developing cultural tourism products. Performance schedules at historical sites and tourist areas are often structured as tours with many accompanying activities. These include hands-on experiences playing gongs and drums, participating in brocade weaving, and pounding rice by hand. And especially, the campfire nights associated with traditional festivals have become a highlight of the S'tieng culture in Binh Phuoc and Dong Nai provinces. Through these activities, the image of the S'tieng people is not only present in community life but also extends to the outside world, becoming known and appreciated by friends and tourists both domestically and internationally. This is a path connecting cultural preservation and socio-economic development, contributing to enriching the spiritual and material lives of the people.

Thanh Nga

Source: https://baodongnai.com.vn/van-hoa/202509/giu-gin-va-lan-toa-ban-sac-van-hoa-giua-doi-thuong-2120942/