KUCHING: The Gawai Dayak celebration serves as a bridge to strengthen unity, cultural pride and gratitude among the Dayak community.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas in extending festive greetings to the Dayak community on the occasion of Gawai Dayak celebrations, said Gawai is a time to reflect on the blessings of the past year and to seek continued guidance, good health and prosperity.
“Gawai is a meaningful occasion for us to express heartfelt gratitude for the blessings we have received over the past year.
“It is also a time to pray for continued guidance, good health and prosperity in the years ahead,” he said in his Gawai message.
Having attended numerous pre-Gawai events and gatherings, Uggah expressed deep admiration for the community’s commitment to preserve their rich cultural traditions.
“I am truly inspired by the vibrant cultural performances and traditional cuisine on display.
“These traditions are sacred and central to our identity, and we must continue to uphold and preserve them with pride, commitment and passion,” he said.
He urged all communities to embrace the spirit of ‘Segulai Sejalai’, especially during the festive season.
“Just as bridges connect our cities and villages, this Gawai season should also serve as a ‘bridge’ to strengthen the bond of friendship, unity, and harmony among us all,” he added.
On development, Uggah highlighted Sarawak’s impressive progress, crediting it to racial harmony and strong leadership under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“Our Premier is a leader for all, regardless of race and religion.
“His policy of inclusivity, as enshrined in the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, ensures that no individual, including the Dayak community is left behind in our journey toward progress,” he said.
He noted that the state government had significantly increased funding for rural development, with RM6.8 billion allocated in Budget 2025, up from RM5.7 billion in the previous year.
“Such figures reflect our unwavering commitment to uplift rural communities across Sarawak,” he said.
Uggah also pointed to the completion of several major bridge projects, including the Batang Saribas 1 Bridge in Pusa, Betong, as well as Bintulu-Jepak, Muara Lassa, Marudi and Batang Rajang bridges.
“Six more bridges, including the nation’s longest river bridge, Batang Lupar 1 are expected to be completed by the end of the year,” he added.
He called on the Dayak community to continue supporting the state government’s inclusive and pro-rural development policies.
“To everyone travelling home for Gawai, whether by road, river or air, I urge you to stay safe and take all necessary precautions so that you and your loved ones arrive safely,” he added.
Uggah ended with a festive greeting in Iban: “Selamat Ngintu Hari Gawai Dayak 2025, Gayu Guru, Gerai Nyamai, Lantang Senang Nguan Menua.”
