BAU: After a month of open houses, family reunions and visits across Sarawak, the Gawai Dayak celebrations came full circle on Tuesday evening (Jun 30) as guests gathered for one final celebration at the Bidayuh Cultural Centre.
The closing Gawai open house offered a fitting end to the harvest festival, bringing together community leaders, guests and families for one final gathering after weeks of festivities across the state.
The welcoming atmosphere began even before guests entered the hall, with Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Henry Harry Jinep, his wife and a line of distinguished guests personally receiving attendees, exchanging handshakes and festive greetings as they arrived.
Inside, the venue reflected the spirit of Gawai as the main stage and foyer were transformed with bamboo, woven crafts and traditional decorations, while a symbolic Gawai display at the entrance welcomed visitors into a setting that showcased Dayak heritage and culture.
Every decorative detail served as a reminder that Gawai is not only a celebration of a successful harvest, but also of identity, heritage and traditions passed down through generations.
Throughout the evening, guests dressed in colourful traditional attire gathered over dinner, catching up with old friends, meeting new faces and sharing conversations that stretched long after the formal programme had ended.
The highlight of the evening was the traditional gulung tikar (mat-rolling) ceremony, symbolising the official conclusion of this year’s Gawai season.
Beyond marking the end of the festivities, the ceremony served as an expression of gratitude for the blessings and sustenance received over the years while reflecting the growing unity and strong spirit of brotherhood among families and the wider community.
In keeping with the spirit of giving, donations were also presented to St. Stephen Church Bau, St. Francis Kindergarten and St. Rita Convent, highlighting the community’s commitment to supporting local institutions beyond the festive season.
As the evening came to an end and guests gradually made their way home, so too did another chapter of Gawai, leaving behind memories of countless gatherings that celebrated not only the harvest, but also the traditions, generosity and enduring community spirit that continue to define the festival year after year.
