BETONG: The Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF) aims to make the Gawai Dayak Open House at the Engkeranji longhouse a flagship annual cultural tourism event.
Following this year’s success, Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Deputy Minister Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu said the programme not only showcases Dayak culture but is also in line with the state’s tourism policy.
“Let’s make this programme a lasting annual legacy. It’s already in its third year.
“With continued support from all parties, tourism products like this will thrive and grow into sustainable tourism,” he said when officiating at the STF’s Gawai Dayak Open House at Rumah Veriland, Engkeranji, here, on Saturday (June 7).
He added that the uniqueness of Gawai Dayak, with its deep-rooted traditions and customs, has the potential to attract even more international visitors.
“This is especially true with support from organisations like STF, which successfully brought in 120 tourists from countries such as Brunei, Indonesia, Australia, Singapore, the United Kingdom and Italy through special travel packages,” he added.
The programme was held as part of the Gawai Dayak celebration framework for the Betong Division 2025, carried out throughout May and June, in close collaboration between the local community and the government.
STF chairperson Audrey Wan Ulok said the “3 Days 2 Nights” package offerred tourists an immersive experience of Iban culture, including overnight stays in longhouses, Gawai processions, traditional feasts and cultural concerts.
Hence, Rumah Panjang Engkeranji was filled with joy and celebration as more than 1,500 people, including local and international tourists, gathered for the event.
The night was enlivened by various cultural performances such as the Ngajat dance, traditional Taboh Iban and Gendang Pampat drumming, and the 2025 Gawai Keamatan Concert.
The concert fused Dayak cultural elements from Sarawak and Sabah, with participation from the Sarawak branch of the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA), and performances by local artist Melissa Francis and renowned sape musician Jerry Kamit.
The programme was also supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts.
