KUCHING: The spirit of unity, cultural pride and heritage preservation will take centre stage when the inaugural Gawai Brumbiek Pinyawa 2026 is held on Sunday (June 14), drawing expected participation from communities across the Pinyawa area.
Organising secretary Eddy Nayoi said the highlight of the celebration will be the Pinyawa Cultural Parade, which is expected to involve about 600 participants from 15 contingents representing the 14 Pinyawa villages and the Pinyawa Association committee.
“The parade marks a historic milestone as this is the first time such a large-scale cultural gathering is being organised specifically to celebrate and showcase the rich heritage of the Biatah Pinyawa community,” he said.
The 2.6-kilometre parade will begin at the Kpg Serumah Community Hall at 5 pm and proceed to the Kpg Gayu Community Hall.
Participating villages include Kampung Gayu, Serumah, Begu, Pesang, Subang, Krian, Sira, Peraya, Stabut, Chupak, Plaman Payang, Skuduk, Sungai Rise, and Maang – all the Pinyawa villages.
The Pinyawa are a distinct Bidayuh sub-ethnic group primarily based in the middle Padawan River area of Sarawak.
Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development (MEITD), and Tarat assemblyman, Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn is scheduled to officiate at the event by flagging off the parade and later closing the ceremony.
Following the parade, the celebration will continue with a dinner reception, cultural performances and a live band entertainment programme.
According to Eddy, the event is organised in line with efforts to preserve and promote the cultural heritage that has been passed down through generations while fostering greater unity among community members.
He said the programme would serve as a platform to introduce the unique customs, traditions and identity of the Biatah Pinyawa community to younger generations and the wider public.
“The parade is more than just a celebration. It is a meaningful effort to strengthen relationships among villagers, encourage community participation and ensure that our cultural heritage remains relevant and appreciated by future generations,” he said.
Traditional costumes, ethnic music, cultural processions and various community-centred activities are expected to showcase the distinctive identity of the Biatah Pinyawa sub-ethnic group while promoting a spirit of cooperation and togetherness.
Eddy added that the event is also expected to attract visitors from outside the area who are interested in learning more about the culture and traditions of the Bidayuh Biatah Pinyawa community.
“With active participation from all stakeholders, we hope this inaugural celebration will become a vibrant annual platform for preserving culture, strengthening community bonds and promoting the rich heritage of the Pinyawa people,” he said.
