KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Works made history yesterday (Jun 18) by hosting its first-ever Gawai Dayak celebration in the heart of the nation’s capital, marking a significant cultural milestone for the Dayak community.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi described the event as deeply meaningful, especially for Sarawakians living away from home.
“As an anak Sarawak, I was profoundly moved. Gawai Dayak, which we have always celebrated in our homeland, was honoured with such respect here in Kuala Lumpur,” he said in a Facebook post last night.
The celebration was made even more special by the presence of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, and Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri.
Nanta said their attendance was more than just a ceremonial gesture, it was a powerful recognition of the Dayak culture as a vital part of Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity.
“When culture crosses borders, what remains is not just tradition but feeling. Today, that feeling was incredibly strong. It lived in every smile, every traditional outfit, the rhythm of the music, and the aroma of the food that filled the halls of the Ministry of Works,” he added.
He ended his message with a heartfelt Gawai greeting: “Happy Gawai Day – Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai. Oohaaaaa!”
