SIBU : Delegates attending the International Automotive Business Convention and Exhibition experienced Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage during the first day of Gawai Dayak celebrations at Rumah Abell in Bawang Assan.
Sibu Municipal Council (SMC) councillor Sean Wong, representing Bawang Assan assemblyman Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh, welcomed the delegates during the visit organised by the Sibu Automobile Repairers Association (SARA) as part of the Gawai Dayak celebrations.
Sean conveyed Wong’s apologies for being unable to attend the event due to prior official commitments and delivered his greetings and best wishes to all guests present.
He also expressed appreciation to the longhouse chief, organising committee and residents of Rumah Abell for their warm reception and excellent hospitality towards the visitors from both near and far.
The visit was joined by 130 convention delegates, including participants from Denmark, Australia, Indonesia, Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak.
According to Sean, the gathering reflected the true spirit of Gawai Dayak, a celebration that promotes gratitude, unity, friendship and togetherness among communities.
Addressing the delegates present, he said the visit provided a meaningful opportunity for them not only to attend the convention in Sibu but also to gain a deeper understanding of the culture, traditions and way of life of the Dayak community in Sarawak.
He noted that Gawai Dayak is more than a festive celebration, describing it as a time for thanksgiving, strengthening family and community bonds, and preserving cultural traditions passed down through generations.
“The open-house tradition during Gawai, symbolises harmony and mutual respect among the various races and religions in Sarawak.
“Sarawak takes pride in its multicultural society, where people of different ethnicities, faiths and cultural backgrounds continue to live together peacefully and harmoniously,” he added.
Sean added that unity and mutual understanding remain among Sarawak’s greatest strengths and stressed the importance of preserving these values for future generations.
He said programmes such as the visit to Rumah Abell help promote tourism, cultural exchange and local economic activities.
“Visitors to Sarawak not only contribute to trade and business sectors but also become ambassadors who share their experiences of the state’s natural beauty, harmony and the friendliness of its people when they return home,” he said.
Sean also expressed hope that the delegates would enjoy their visit, savour traditional delicacies and leave with fond memories of Sarawak.
Also present were SARA chairman Penghulu Teo Nging Poh, who is also president of the Federation of Automobile Workshop Owners’ Association of Malaysia (FAWOA), convention organising chairman Kapitan Samuel Goh Kee Seng, and Tuai Rumah Abell.
