KUCHING: A total of 114 contingents from across Sarawak took part in the Niti Daun procession on Saturday, reflecting growing efforts among Dayak communities to preserve and promote their cultural heritage.
The procession, one of the highlights of the State Level Gawai Dayak 2026 celebration, featured 15 decorated floats and 99 participating groups, including several ethnic communities that are rarely seen in major public cultural events.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the participation of these lesser known ethnic groups was among the most significant achievements of this year’s event.
He said their presence demonstrated the strong commitment of Dayak associations and organisations throughout the state to safeguard and showcase their respective traditions and customs.
“We were particularly impressed to see the emergence of ethnic groups that we rarely get to see. It shows that many Dayak associations in Sarawak are keen to develop and showcase their cultural heritage,” he said to reporters after the procession.
Uggah added that the event offered Malaysians a valuable opportunity to witness the diversity of Dayak cultures, noting that Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg was also impressed by the participation of communities that are seldom represented at public cultural showcases.
He said the success of the procession underscored the importance of cultural preservation while strengthening unity among Sarawak’s diverse Dayak communities.
According to Uggah, the event carried a broader message of solidarity, demonstrating how Dayaks from different ethnic backgrounds across the state could come together for a common purpose.
“It shows how the Dayak community, despite its diversity, can remain united and work together with the organising committee to make this programme a success,” he said.
He also acknowledged the commitment shown by participants, many of whom travelled from as far as Lawas and Miri to take part in the celebration.
Their willingness to devote time and effort to present their cultures and traditions, he said, was a meaningful contribution towards promoting understanding, harmony and national unity.
As part of the celebration, prizes were presented to winners of the Cultural Parade and Cultural Float competitions. Kelab Belia Warisan Budaya Kreatif Taman Samarindah emerged champion in the Iban Cultural Parade category, while DBNA Samarahan Branch won the Bidayuh category.
The Orang Ulu Cultural Parade title went to Persatuan Wanita Kayan Sarawak (PWKS), while Kumpulan Kebudayaan Kampung Gumbang Bau claimed top honours in the Cultural Float category.
Uggah presented the prizes to the winners.
