KUCHING: Bazaar Gawai Dayak 2025 is set to be more vibrant this year, running for 11 days from May 15 to 25 at Batu Kawah New Township (MJC), here.
According to Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour Monitoring, Immigration and Project), Datuk Gerawat Gala, this year’s bazaar will feature 180 stalls, including 50 handicraft stalls, as well as numerous food, beverage, and dry goods stalls operated by local communities.
“This bazaar not only aims to enliven the Gawai Dayak celebration but also serves as a platform to promote local craftsmanship, strengthen unity, and showcase the cultural diversity of the Dayak community,” he said during a press conference at Baitulmakmur I Building on Tuesday (May 13).
The opening ceremony of Bazaar Gawai Dayak 2025 will be officiated by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas.
This year, the Orang Ulu community will host the celebration, giving them the opportunity to showcase their rich customs and traditions to the people of Sarawak and visitors from outside the state.
Additionally, a variety of cultural and entertainment activities are planned throughout the bazaar, including the Gawai Idol contest, the Ratu Gawai pageant, and ‘Battle of the Band’ competition, which are expected to attract youth participation and visitors from all walks of life.
“This bazaar is open to all communities. We warmly welcome the public to join the festivities while supporting local entrepreneurs,” he added.
The 2025 State-Level Gawai Dayak Celebration in Sarawak will also be enlivened by several major events, such as the Traditional Gawai Carnival on June 12 and 13 at the Federation of Orang Ulu Malaysia (FORUM) in Miri, the Gawai Dayak Parade on June 21 at Kuching Waterfront to be officiated by the Premier, the Gawai Dayak Dinner on June 22 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK), which will be attended by the Governor of Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, and the launch of a coffee table book themed on Dayak culture and heritage.
Gerawat expressed hope that broader community participation will further highlight the uniqueness of the Gawai celebration as a pillar of unity and cultural heritage in the state.
