KUCHING: Those celebrating the coming Gawai Dayak on June 1 and 2 are advised to refrain from extravagant expenditures.
Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, said while it is natural to feel excited and indulge in festivities, it is even more essential to practice moderation and responsible spending.
“We should control our spending. This is crucial in light of the current economic uncertainties. After the COVID-19 pandemic, we should be able to adjust our spending depending on circumstances.
“Let’s focus on creating lasting memories and fostering a sense of togetherness while being mindful of our financial well-being and the needs of others,” he added.
Rentap, who is also Layar assemblyman, gave the advice during a courtesy call by New Sarawak Tribune team led by its managing editor Aden Nagrace at his office, Bangunan Baitul Makmur II in Petra Jaya here, yesterday. Also present were Sarawak Tribune chief reporter Natasha Jee and deputy chief reporters Sarah Hafizah Chandra and Allan Jay.
He said by adopting a mindset of moderation and responsible spending, the people could ensure that the celebration remained meaningful, sustainable, and inclusive.
It is also more important for us to save for rainy days, especially for our children, he added.
On a separate development, he cautioned the public to stay vigilant when they “balik kampung” for this Gawai, especially when they were to drive along the Pan Borneo Highway.
“Please be extra careful especially when you have been away for too long. Many parts of the roads have changed and you may not know the road well so you must be extra careful and plan your journey properly.
“At some stretches of the new Pan Borneo Highway, it will require you to even take a p-turn and if you missed that part, it would be another long drive ahead.
“Also because of the better road conditions now, people tend to drive fast, and this may pose danger to other road users,” he added.
