MIRI: As Sarawak prepares to welcome the Gawai Dayak festivities, the Indigenous Intellectuals Association of Sarawak (PERANTIS) has called on all communities to embrace the spirit of gratitude, unity, and cultural pride that defines the celebration.
PERANTIS deputy president Ricky Sani and vice president Nelly Tawai described Gawai Dayak as one of the most significant cultural events in Sarawak, uniting not only the Iban community but also the Bidayuh and Orang Ulu peoples under a shared spirit of thanksgiving and tradition.
“Gawai is more than just a festive occasion, it is a celebration of unity and gratitude towards Petara for the year’s blessings,” they said in a joint statement.
“It strengthens communal ties and fosters appreciation for Sarawak’s rich heritage.”
The leaders acknowledged the evolving nature of Gawai in today’s multicultural landscape, encouraging it to become a symbol of interethnic harmony and cultural inclusivity.
They lauded the various pre-Gawai programmes organised across the state, which they said help instil a deeper love for Sarawak’s diverse traditions among the younger generation.
“Such initiatives not only highlight the uniqueness of Dayak culture but also reignite pride in our shared heritage,” they said.
“Gawai is a manifestation of Malaysia’s cultural richness. It teaches values of togetherness, respect for nature, and reverence for our ancestors.”
The PERANTIS leaders also expressed hope that Gawai will continue to serve as a pillar of unity in Sarawak, a state blessed, they said, with political stability and social cohesion despite its ethnic and religious diversity.
“This is the uniqueness of Sarawak , we can live together peacefully and successfully as Malaysians.
“While the world is grappling with division, Sarawak stands as an example of unity,” they said.
Touching on broader national issues, they reiterated the need to uphold the spirit of the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63), particularly Sarawak and Sabah’s entitlement to one-third of parliamentary seats in the Dewan Rakyat, a provision diluted following Singapore’s departure from Malaysia in 1965.
“This was agreed in good faith by our founding leaders. It is time to restore those rights to strengthen the federation and ensure fair representation for East Malaysian states,” they added.
Looking ahead, PERANTIS urged all Sarawakians to celebrate Gawai 2025 with renewed purpose, not only as a tribute to cultural resilience but as a step toward building a just and empowered Sarawak.
“To those returning to their kampung and longhouses, and to all who stand with us in building a fair and united Sarawak, we wish you a safe journey and a joyous Gawai celebration.”
