KANOWIT: The Gawai Dayak festivities at Rumah Panjang Maling Nyapang, Sungai Maong, Jalan Kanowit-Durin, were marked by vibrant celebrations and community spirit.
The Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK), together with the local youth and women’s groups (Belia & Beliawanis), organised a series of exciting events over four days in conjunction with the Gawai celebration this year.
The festivities kicked off on Thursday with competitions such as ‘lumba batu bata’ (brick race), candy search in flour, slowest cycling, sepak takraw, musical chairs, and colouring contests.
“Programmes like this are crucial in strengthening bonds among the longhouse community, especially when many residents are often away due to work or studies.
“These activities bring everyone together and rekindle the spirit of unity,” said Henry Jugah.
Henry also praised the dedicated efforts of the JKKK and the local youth and women’s committees for their strong collaboration in making the celebration a success.
To further support the event, Henry contributed prizes for the Deco Ruai (ruai decoration contest), as well as medals for the Kumang and Keling Gawai competitions.
On the second day, activities continued with coconut throwing, tug-of-war, and Dayak traditional cooking competitions.
The evening featured lively events such as the ‘pondan’ (cross-dressing) contest, ‘engkaratong’, ‘poco-poco’ dance contest, and ‘tuak’-drinking competition.
Day Three brought more excitement with a slow motorcycle riding challenge and ‘pekit nyumpit’ (blowpipe competition).
The evening was highlighted with the Kumang and Keling Gawai beauty pageants, a ‘betaboh’ (traditional drumming) competition, and lucky draws.
On the final day, the community held the traditional ‘ngabang Gawai’ (Gawai visiting), lucky draw sessions, and the symbolic presentation of the Gawai chain (rantai Gawai).
