WHEN hosting a festival or Gawai at a longhouse, organizers typically begin with a gathering in the early evening. This meeting takes place in the Tuai Rumah’s gallery, known as the ruai, or in adjacent galleries, providing a space for hosts and guests to convene and receive important instructions.
During this gathering, a designated elder from the host community outlines the rules and guidelines of the festival. The elder uses clear and simple language to ensure comprehension among all attendees, including children. These guidelines are crucial for maintaining harmony and order throughout the celebration.
The elder’s speech, ‘begeliga’ in the Iban language, is delivered directly, without rituals or incantations like ‘sampi’ (rhythmic prayer) or ‘bebiau’ (waving a cockerel). This straightforward approach ensures the message is accessible and easily understood by everyone present.
Historically, these instructions were sometimes delivered by walking through the entire longhouse to reach each resident. However, with modern technology like microphones, the elder can now address everyone simultaneously during the gathering, provided the longhouse has electricity.
This oral tradition of ‘begeliga’ has been passed down through generations. It’s a skill often performed by an elder or bard, who might incorporate rhymes to enhance the delivery. However, this is not always necessary, as modern audiences prefer a more direct and easily comprehensible style.
‘Begeliga’ is typically conducted during significant festivals such as Gawai Burung (Omen Birds Festival), Gawai Tajau (Jar Festival), and Gawai Kenyalang (Hornbill Festival). However, Gawai Antu (Festival to Commemorate the Deceased), takes place earlier, before the bards emerge from their rooms and begin their procession through the longhouse, usually between 7 and 8 pm.
During the ‘begeliga’, the appointed elder summarises the event’s rules and guidelines, clearly stating any penalties for non-compliance. These rules foster respect between hosts and guests, prohibit aggressive behaviour or disputes, and promote harmony.
Guests are reminded to respect the privacy of individual rooms and living spaces within the longhouse. They are explicitly forbidden from entering any room without permission, with fines potentially imposed for violations.
The elder emphasizes the importance of respectful behaviour and appropriate language from all attendees, both hosts and guests, which includes avoiding conflicts and refraining from arrogant displays.
The consequences of disruptive behaviour are clearly outlined, reinforcing the commitment to maintaining peace and order throughout the festival.
The ‘begeliga’, speech typically begins with the elder praising the hosts for their diligent preparations and generous hospitality, acknowledging the abundance of food and drinks provided during the Gawai.
However, the elder also cautions guests against overindulgence in alcohol or food, as excessive consumption can lead to inappropriate behaviour or health issues.
A man is responsible for sounding the gong to announce the gathering for ‘begeliga’. While announcements were once made by shouting, modern technology like microphones has significantly simplified this process.
The elder often begins the speech with a humble introduction, such as: “I am honoured, though a little nervous, to present these vital guidelines for us all to abide by.
“By adhering to them, we can ensure a harmonious and joyful festival. The Gawai committee has tasked me to represent our longhouse in explaining these rules and the disciplinary measures, including fines, for any violations.
“My ‘geliga’ (the noun form of ‘begeliga’, is meant to promote peace and harmony among all guests and hosts.”
The elder might continue with a reminder: “If there is any rudeness, disrespect, or improper behaviour, please do not respond aggressively. Instead, address the matter respectfully.
“For bachelors attempting to impress maidens, let us allow them to interact appropriately within the bounds of social conventions. This festival offers opportunities for connections to form, and we must refrain from unnecessary interference.
“However, in cases where one party is married, caution and responsibility must be exercised to avoid misunderstandings or accusations of infidelity. Let us all celebrate responsibly, sharing laughter and joy, while maintaining the decorum expected of us.”
The elder also reminds guests to dress appropriately and behave respectfully: “We are delighted to welcome guests in their finest attire, whether it be traditional costumes or modern formal wear.
“Let your attire be complemented by the best of manners as well. Men are forbidden from entering private rooms without permission or disturbing women working in the kitchen.
“Any improper behaviour or insolence will result in a fine of RM100. Similarly, acts of intoxication that lead to disturbances such as breaking utensils will require compensation for the damage, and physical aggression, such as punching, will also incur a fine of RM100.”
To ensure safety, the elder adds: “If anyone carries any harmful items or substances, please declare them to the Gawai committee and leave them in their safekeeping. These will be returned to you after the event.”
The speech concludes with gratitude and encouragement: “This ‘geliga’ is intended to ensure a peaceful and harmonious event. I thank you all for your attention and cooperation.”
Following the ‘begeliga’, the festival proceeds according to the schedule outlined by the Gawai committee. By then, everyone will be fully informed of their responsibilities and the expectations for respectful behaviour.
