KUCHING: Puncak Borneo Member of Parliament, Datuk Willie Mongin, is inviting the public, including foreign tourists, to witness the ‘Brarak & Bipajak Gawai Bisegu 2025’, which will be held at Kampung Segu Bunuk, Jalan Puncak Borneo here on June 2.
He believes this year’s parade or procession would offer a chance to experience first-hand the culture and traditions of the Bidayuh community, especially within Mambong state constituency.
He said unlike in the previous years, where it only involved villages from among the Bisegu Benuk Bidayuh clan, this time around some 21 contingents comprising over 2,000 participants were expected to take part in the parade.
“This year’s event is going to be grander in terms of the number of troupes, after we have decided to extend the invitation to other Bidayuh clans’ and non-government organisations’ associations in Mambong,” he told Sarawak Tribune yesterday.
Organised by Persatuan Segu Bunuk Penrissen (PSBP), he pointed out that the ‘Brarak & Bipajak Gawai Bisegu’ as a whole served as a unique way for the community to come together and celebrate Gawai as well as for outsiders to appreciate the rich heritage of the community in the area.
Willie, who is also PSBP patron, believed that through the annual parade and cultural performances, the Bidayuh community in the area would have the opportunity to showcase their vibrant tapestries woven with the threads of tradition, unity and self-expression.
He pointed out that the parade and the cultural performance at night were not going to be just mere gatherings, but also profound demonstrations of the Bidayuh cultural pride and solidarity.
“I believe both the parade and the cultural performance are going to offer a unique glimpse into the heart of the different Bidayuh clans in the area, which may reveal the historical roots, social norms and aspirations for the future,” he said.
The parade and the cultural performance to be organised in conjunction the ‘Brarak & Bipajak Gawai Bisegu 2025’ are expected to highlight performers from various Bidayuh villages, each showcasing their unique artistry and cultural pride.
Willie pointed out that from the perspective of local residents, the parade would be a day of pride and celebration, and an opportunity to educate others about their culture and tradition.
For visitors and tourists, it was going to be an immersive experience, a chance to witness the diversity and richness of different Bidayuh cultures.
“For children and youth, the parade is not going to be just a source of entertainment but a window into the community, and the state’s diverse cultures which need to be preserved for the next generation to see.
“Of course, for the participants of the parade and cultural performance events, as well as the organisers, it represents days or weeks of preparation and dedication to bring the essence of their culture to life,” he said.
Transport Deputy Minister, who is also the Mambong Assemblyman, Datuk Dr Jerip Susil, will flag off the parade at 4:00 pm, and later officiate the Bipajak Gawai ceremony at 8:00 pm.
Willie said he would also be present to lead the VVIPs’ contingent comprising the Ketua Kaum of the participating villages at the parade and attend the cultural performance at night.
“To everyone, to all cultural enthusiasts including tourists, set your date and join us at this upcoming unique ‘Brarak & Bipajak Gawai Bisegu 2025’ annual event.
Like in the previous years, the contingents will converge at Bung Barau Tourist Information Centre before they march to and around the Kampung Bunuk Longhouse and end the parade there.
