SARAWAK’S rich Dayak heritage was celebrated in a vibrant display of tradition, unity and cultural pride during the State Level Gawai Dayak 2026 celebration, which featured the traditional miring ceremony and Niti Daun procession.
The celebration commenced with the traditional miring ceremony at the Tun Jugah Foundation Building, marking the official opening of the annual event and setting the tone for a day dedicated to honouring Dayak customs and heritage.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas joined Dayak leaders, elected representatives, cultural practitioners and community representatives in performing the customary ritual, one of the most important traditions associated with Gawai Dayak.
Gathered around three sets of eight offerings carefully arranged on teping, traditional Iban ritual trays used as sacred platforms for presenting offerings and prayers, participants took part in a ceremony deeply rooted in Iban culture.
The offerings consisted of pulut (glutinous rice), eggs, tobacco, rendai (popped glutinous paddy) and sungki (glutinous rice wrapped in leaves), each carrying a symbolic significance within the ritual. Together, they represented thanksgiving for blessings received and prayers to Petara, the supreme deity in Iban belief, for continued prosperity, protection and wellbeing.
The ceremony was led by a lemambang, a respected traditional Iban ritual specialist responsible for preserving and performing ceremonial chants passed down through generations. Through his chants, he invoked blessings from Petara for the community, the state and its leaders while recounting the achievements, strengths and contributions of the Dayak elected representatives present.
He spoke of their roles and responsibilities as leaders before seeking wisdom, protection, good health and continued success for them in serving their respective communities.
The miring ceremony remains an integral part of Gawai Dayak celebrations and reflects the Dayak community’s enduring respect for its customs, values and ancestral heritage.
Following the ceremony, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg joined participants for the Niti Daun procession, one of the main highlights of the State Level Gawai Dayak 2026 celebration.
Hosted by the Iban community this year, the procession began at the Tun Jugah Foundation Building and proceeded along a 1.2 kilometre route to the Kuching Waterfront.
More than 100 contingents representing Dayak associations from throughout Sarawak took part in the colourful procession, transforming the city streets into a vibrant showcase of indigenous culture and heritage.
The tradition of Niti Daun traces its origins to major Iban Gawai celebrations, particularly in Baleh, Kapit, Batang Ai and Lubok Antu. Traditionally, participants would walk along the ruai, or communal gallery of a longhouse, towards the main venue where the celebration was held.
Closely associated with the traditional Ngerandang ritual, Niti Daun symbolises thanksgiving, unity and celebration. In customary practice, the procession is led by warriors and accompanied by piring bearers, while rice is scattered as a symbol of blessings and prosperity.
Over time, the tradition has evolved into a large scale cultural procession that brings together Dayak communities from across Sarawak, providing a platform to celebrate achievements, strengthen unity and showcase the richness of indigenous heritage.
Abang Johari walked alongside participants throughout the procession, greeting members of the public who had gathered along the route to witness the celebration.
Participants from Iban, Bidayuh and Orang Ulu associations marched proudly in traditional attire, displaying the unique customs and cultural identities of their respective communities. Intricate beadwork, traditional ornaments, woven textiles and ceremonial accessories added colour and character to the procession.
Traditional music accompanied the parade as contingents made their way through the city streets, creating a festive atmosphere. Spectators lined the route from mid-afternoon, with many taking photographs and videos while cheering on participants as they passed by.
The procession provided an opportunity for Dayak associations from different divisions and districts to come together in a shared celebration of culture and identity. Each contingent brought its own distinctive cultural elements, highlighting the diversity found within the Dayak community.
For many participants, the celebration represented more than a cultural showcase. It was an opportunity to honour their ancestors, celebrate their identity and preserve traditions inherited from previous generations.
As the procession concluded at the Kuching Waterfront, participants and visitors continued to mingle in a festive atmosphere, exchanging greetings and capturing memories of the occasion.
More than just a celebration, the State Level Gawai Dayak 2026 event highlighted the enduring importance of preserving Sarawak’s indigenous heritage while fostering unity among its Dayak communities.
