BY AMYLY YONG KAI HUI & LAKESH KUMAR
KUCHING: Whether it is dancing to the rhythmic beat of the ‘tabuh ngajat’ or savouring a glass of tuak (rice wine) aged over several months, Hari Gawai is more than just a celebration – it is a heartfelt reunion of family and community.
Celebrated on June 1, Gawai marks the end of the rice harvesting season and is a time of thanksgiving for the Dayak people.
It is a moment to reconnect with loved ones and honour the blessings of the past year.
In the lead-up to the festival, homes are cleaned more thoroughly than usual.
The Sarawak Tribune spoke to several members of the public about their most cherished Gawai moments – and, of course, their favourite festive dishes.
NICHOLAS KUDI JANTAI MASING
(Baleh Assemblyman)
“As for me, Gawai is to celebrate with my family and relatives in the village. During this season, the drinks and dishes that I would not say ‘no’ to are tuak (rice wine), kasam ikan (fermented fish) and many more.
Usually, I will be invited to go to open house in my own constituency, especially on May 31 and June 1. For me, Gawai holds a lot of memories and I am very excited to celebrate it this year.”
ANDYSON JUNIS JAMES, 24
(Student)
‘We will be celebrating Gawai with lots of joy and meaningful traditions. Customs like ngajat (Iban dance) and house visiting are observed by my family every year.
My favourite dish during Gawai celebration is penganan because this snack is lovingly prepared at home and has a distinct taste.
I will be visiting friends and relatives during Gawai as it is a cherished tradition to visit loved ones. I wish for this continued unity and happiness among my family and the community.”
ANISA SUHA, 24
(Student)
“This Gawai, I am heading back to my hometown to celebrate it with my family and relatives. One tradition that we always keep is staying up until morning on May 31 to shout ‘Guru Gerai Nyamai’.
During this celebration, my favourite food will be manok pansuh (chicken cooked in bamboo stalk) and kek lapis (layered cakes). They taste better during Gawai when enjoyed together with loved ones.
Gawai visiting is a must for me as I love meeting people, including old friends and strangers. For this Gawai, I wish all peace and good health and may the spirit of Gawai stay strong in our hearts.”
AMENDA DELINA DE BOSCO, 24
(Barista)
“Usually during Gawai, we will hold various competitions for everyone, including pekit Keling Kumang that depicts the beauty of Iban traditional costumes.
My favourite dish during Gawai will be manok pansuh and my favourite snack is penganan that is made from rice flour and palm sugar.
For me, I will not be visiting many houses during the celebration as there are only a few household units in the long house.
Usually, we will only be gathering on the verandah, eat together food like bamboo meals and drink tuak. I wish everyone a Happy Gawai and a safe journey home.”
