MIRI: A state-level Dayak Cultural Carnival, led by the Orang Ulu community, is set to take centre stage here this June, promising a vibrant showcase of tradition, talent and unity.
Scheduled to be held on either June 13 or 14, the two-day, two-night event will feature an exciting lineup of activities, including the beauty pageants (female and male) and sape music competition at state-level.
Traditional games such as blowpipe (menyumpit) contests are also on the cards, offering a lively celebration of Dayak heritage.
Telang Usan assemblyman, Datuk Dennis Ngau, who chairs the organising committee, said preparations are in full swing, with the event aimed at fostering cultural pride and inclusivity.
“We will finalise the programme during tomorrow’s meeting (April 27).
“It’s heartening to see such enthusiastic participation from the community, and the prizes on offer will certainly motivate greater involvement,” he said.
Dennis made the announcement on Saturday during the official launch of the 19th Miri Division Gawai Dayak Celebration’s Dayak Songs Karaoke Contest 2025 that drew 16 participants.
The champion and first runner-up are slated to perform during the semi-final and final rounds of the beauty pageants on May 25.
Reflecting on the evolution of Gawai Dayak celebrations in Miri, Dennis noted how the event has grown from a modest affair focused on dinners and pageants into a dynamic festival featuring blood donation campaigns, children’s drawing competitions, and other community-driven activities.
He lauded the Dayak community’s strong spirit of unity, describing it as “a key element in making Miri a joyful and harmonious place to live”.
“Regardless of our backgrounds, unity must always come first. Mirians have shown remarkable togetherness over the years. Keep it up,” he urged.
In a show of support for local talent, Dennis pledged RM10,000 towards the Dayak Karaoke Contest, underscoring his commitment to nurturing cultural expression at the grassroots level.
