MIRI: The Orang Ulu community is set to take centre stage as host of this year’s State-level Gawai Dayak celebrations, with a vibrant series of events scheduled across Sarawak from May to the end of June 2025.
A colourful celebration of Sarawak’s Dayak culture and heritage, Gawai Dayak marks the end of the rice harvest season, traditionally observed on June 1.
This year’s official festivities, however, extend well beyond that date, culminating in a diverse programme in both Kuching and Miri.
In the capital, highlights include the much-anticipated Gawai Bazaar from May 14 to 25 at the Kuching Waterfront, the symbolic ‘Perarakan Gawai Dayak’ or Niti Daun (a Gawai procession) on June 21, and a grand Gawai Gala Dinner on June 22.
Meanwhile in Miri, the city will host its own flagship celebration: Karnival Tradisi Gawai Dayak 2025, slated for 12 to 13 June at the FORUM Cultural Centre.
Organising Chairman and Telang Usan assemblyman, Datuk Dennis Ngau, said the carnival provides an opportunity to bring the spirit of Gawai beyond Kuching and into the heart of northern Sarawak.
“We want to share the joy and rich cultural atmosphere of Gawai with all communities in Miri and surrounding areas.
“The carnival promises to be both nostalgic and educational, especially for the younger generation,” he said.
The opening day on June 12 will feature traditional games played by Orang Ulu and other Dayak groups, activities aimed at reviving folk pastimes such as ‘permainan rakyat’ and engaging attendees of all ages.
The cultural excitement continues into the evening with a Datun Julud competition, showcasing the elegant traditional dance of the Kenyah people, performed by teams of eight dancers.
This will be followed by a Duo Sape competition, highlighting the melodious resonance of the traditional Orang Ulu stringed instrument.
But the centrepiece of the Miri celebrations is undoubtedly the Miss Gawai Sarawak Pageant 2025, which will take place on June 13.
The pageant, open to single Dayak women aged between 18 and 30 who have won their respective district or divisional titles, will see 15 finalists competing in the grand finale.
Contestants will be judged not only on poise and presentation but also on cultural knowledge and talent.
The finals will feature a talent segment and an evening wear showcase, with all participants required to don contemporary ethnic gowns.
Prizes for the top contestants include:
Winner: RM15,000 cash, RM20,000 scholarship (courtesy of Fajar International College), a trophy, sash, flower bouquet and certificate;
First Runner-up: RM12,000 cash, RM15,000 scholarship, trophy, sash, bouquet and certificate;
Second Runner-up: RM10,000 cash, RM10,000 scholarship, trophy, sash, bouquet and certificate; and
Consolation Prize (for remaining finalists): RM3,000 cash, RM5,000 scholarship, and certificate.
An additional Best Contemporary Ethnic Dress Award will also be presented, carrying a prize of RM3,000, a sash and a certificate of recognition.
The organising committee has called on all district and divisional-level organisers of local pageants, including Kumang, Keligit Orang Ulu, and Dayung Sangon, to nominate their winners promptly, as only the first 15 entries will be accepted.
The public is encouraged to attend and support the events, particularly the traditional games and cultural performances.
Pre-registration is required for those wishing to participate in any of the competitions, including:
Traditional Games Competition: Contact Audrey Justine Jok at 017-8050859;
Datun Julud Dance Competition (Team of 8 dancers): Contact person Dominica Tingang at 019-8841949;
Duo Sape Competition: Contact person Augustine Supen at 019-8578064;
Entry tickets to the Miss Gawai Sarawak Pageant 2025 will be available to the public soon, priced at RM20 each.
Sarawak Deputy Premier and State Gawai Committee Chairman, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, is expected to officiate the carnival on June 13.
