KUCHING: The rhythmic and powerful sounds of the gendang pampat, a cherished traditional Iban drum, are once again echoing through longhouses and villages, adding a vibrant pulse to Gawai Dayak festivities across Sarawak.
More than just music, the deep drumbeats serve as a cultural heartbeat — uniting generations, evoking ancestral pride, and amplifying the joy of the harvest celebration. The instrument’s presence during Gawai not only enlivens the atmosphere but also preserves an important piece of indigenous heritage that continues to thrive in modern celebrations.
At the Gawai Ba Podium ceremony held over the recent weekend at The Podium, here, the event was made even more festive by a powerful performance from Kumpulan Gendang Pampat Peruji Ati (KGPPA) of Taman Malihah Phase I. Their captivating rhythms set the tone for a lively and meaningful celebration.
Led by its chief, Junau Nyumboi, and assisted by Asan Ancheh, KGPPA was officially established in November 2022.
However, Junau expressed concern over the younger generation’s lack of interest in traditional Iban musical instruments. Cultural advocates warn that these traditions risk fading into obscurity if youth continue to disengage from their musical roots.
Instruments such as the sape, gendang pampat, and engkerumong — once central to Sarawak’s cultural celebrations — now face an uncertain future as modern entertainment overshadows these indigenous sounds.
“Without active participation from the youth, there’s a growing fear that these musical traditions could be lost to time, along with the stories and identity they carry.
“KGPPA is currently made up of middle-aged members and pensioners. We need new faces — those who will carry the torch. Even children as young as four can start learning these instruments. In no time, they’ll also be able to perform the Ngajat, the traditional Iban dance,” he said.
He said this at the opening ceremony of Gawai Ba Podium, organised by Woo Woo Whimsy and officiated by Batu Kitang assemblyman Datuk Lo Khere Chiang.
The group originally existed before 2022 but was disbanded, only to be revived later that year through a collaboration with Serakup Indu Dayak Sarawak (SIDS) Taman Malihah.
Currently, KGPPA has 15 active members and a full set of executive committee members under its association.
Explaining the tradition of gendang pampat, Junau shared that in Iban customs, the drum comprises three stages — Pelandok Tinggang Batang, Tambit, and Dandandan — each contributing different tabuh (rhythmic patterns). These patterns dictate how the beats begin and end, and the specific ceremonies they accompany.
“When we begin to betabuh (play the beats), the rhythms encompass the spirit of various festivals and rituals. In the longhouse, these include events such as Sanday Hari, Papandong, Gawai, and many more,” he said.
Although officially revived only three years ago, KGPPA has quickly gained momentum, receiving invitations to perform at both local and international events. Their performances have graced state-level Gawai festivals, official functions, cultural events, and even institutions of higher learning throughout Sarawak.
