KUCHING: The fourth edition of the Gawai Dayak Open House and Parade is set to return on 6 June 2026 at Rumah Veriland Engkeranji, Betong, Sarawak, celebrating the rich culture and community spirit of the Dayak people.
Organised by the Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF), the festival is a vibrant showcase of Dayak heritage and a key highlight of Visit Malaysia 2026.
The event plays an important role in promoting Sarawak’s cultural diversity to the world.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP), Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said the festival symbolises thanksgiving after the harvest season and provides a special moment for families and communities to gather.
“We will host the event in Betong, a district known for its rich Dayak heritage and vibrant community spirit.
“It is an excellent opportunity to highlight local cultural identity while also boosting tourism-related economic activities,” he said at the What About Kuching (WAK) Festival press conference at 11Ridgeway today.
During the press conference, Awang Saifeluddin Awangku Karim, Assistant Honorary Secretary-General of STF, shared the schedule of activities for the Parade in Betong Town.
“The celebration begins in the morning with the Gawai Parade, featuring colourful cultural troupes, decorated contingents, and community groups in a vibrant display of Dayak heritage and unity.
“In the evening, the Gawai Open House will run from 5 pm to 10 pm, followed by the Gawai Concert from 10 pm to midnight,” he added.
The concert will feature special performances by local Sarawak artists and renowned singers from Kalimantan and Sabah, marking a unique cross-border Borneo cultural collaboration.
Previously, the event attracted 1,541 participants, with Rumah Engkeranji welcoming 120 guests.
This year, the parade is expected to draw 2,000 to 5,000 attendees, including government leaders, community associations, tourism industry partners, and more.
Visitors can also enjoy glamping, picnic activities, cooking classes, cultural workshops, and other experiences organised by Borneo Glamping.
With the unique opportunity to stay at a contemporary longhouse and immerse in cultural experiences, the public is invited to book packages through sarawak.travel/2026-openhouse/.
