KUCHING: Gawai Dayak should continue to serve as more than a festive celebration, but as a platform for younger generations to understand their roots, embrace cultural values, and prepare themselves for Sarawak’s future, according to former Deputy Chief Minister and current State Government Advisor, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Alfred Jabu anak Numpang.
Speaking during his Gawai Dayak open house at his residence, the 86-year-old statesman reflected on the evolution of Gawai from its origins as a harvest thanksgiving celebration to its present-day role as a symbol of unity, progress, and cultural identity.
“Gawai was first celebrated to give thanks for a good harvest and to pray for an even better season ahead. Today, while our way of life has changed, the spirit of gratitude remains the same,” he said.
He said this when speaking to the reporters after welcoming Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and other cabinet ministers two the family’s Gawai Dayak Open House at his residence at Jalan Wan Alwi here today.
Jabu noted that the Dayak community’s dependence on paddy farming had significantly evolved alongside Sarawak’s development transformation over the decades.
“Development has transformed our lives. During my younger days, it took three days and three nights to travel from my area to Kuching. Today, with improved infrastructure, the journey takes only a few hours. These are blessings we should be thankful for during Gawai,” he said.
While acknowledging modern progress, he stressed that younger generations must continue preserving their cultural identity and values.
“It is important that we bring our young people along during Gawai. Let them know their relatives, their friends, and understand their culture. Festivals are opportunities for them to learn where they come from,” he said.
Jabu described Sarawak’s multicultural harmony as one of the state’s greatest strengths, pointing to the open-house culture practised during Gawai, Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, and other festive celebrations.
“When we celebrate Gawai, our Malay, Chinese and other friends come to visit us. Likewise, we visit them during their celebrations. This sincere spirit of togetherness is what makes Sarawak special,” he said.
The veteran leader also encouraged youth to embrace emerging technologies and future industries without fear.
“My advice to young people is simple, do not be afraid of new things. Do not make excuses not to understand information technology, artificial intelligence, or big data. These are the tools that will shape the future,” he said.
He urged young Sarawakians to equip themselves with knowledge and skills to compete globally while maintaining strong moral values and cultural identity.
“We must be prepared to venture into new fields, even when they seem difficult. The future belongs to those who are willing to learn and adapt,” he added.
Reflecting on Sarawak’s development journey, Jabu expressed pride in how far the state has progressed since the formation of Malaysia.
“Fifty or sixty years ago, Sarawak was among the least developed states. Today, we are among the best-performing states in Malaysia. This did not happen by chance. It came through good leadership, political stability, sound planning, and the support of the people.”
Despite retiring from active politics after more than four decades of public service, Jabu said he remains committed to sharing his experience and knowledge with younger generations.
“In Iban philosophy, if you have a good idea in your head, transfer it to your heart, and then to your hands. When it reaches your hands, share it with others. Knowledge is meant to be passed on,” he said.
For Jabu, Gawai continues to represent togetherness, gratitude, and family.
“It is a time when children return home, families gather, and communities reconnect. That spirit of togetherness is the true meaning of Gawai.”
As visitors from various backgrounds streamed into his residence throughout the day, the elder statesman said the celebration reflected the very values Sarawak is known for, unity in diversity, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to building a better future together.
“Selamat Hari Gawai. Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai. Let us continue to work together, respect one another, and ensure that future generations inherit an even better Sarawak,” he said.
Also present at the the family Gawai Dayak Open House, his wife Tan Sri Empiang Jabu, his children, Jennifer Nangku, Mangi and Barbara Dubah and their families, Malaysia Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof, Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Petrs chairman, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Hamid Bugo, former deputy chief minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri George Chan Hong Nam, Utility and Telecommunications Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Nahrawi, Miniter for Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah, Deputy Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Huang Tiong Sii, Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee and their spouses.
