SIBU: The Sarawak Dayak National Union (SDNU) Sibu and Sarakup Indu Dayak Sarawak (SIDS) Sibu are calling for the Niti Daun programme, or Gawai Dayak procession, to be held in this town.
SIDS Sibu chairperson Angelyn Uchi Maseng said both associations are ready to organise the procession, which would showcase Dayak culture and heritage.
“Other areas have organised this programme not only to highlight our culture but also to strengthen the bonds between communities.
“Therefore, we would also like to see it organised in Sibu. However, as we all know, organising such a programme requires substantial funding. The association hopes that local representatives can assist us financially,” she said.
She said this in her welcoming speech at the Dayak Pre-Gawai Night 2025 organised by SIDS Sibu and officiated by Sri Aman MP Datuk Seri Doris Sophia Brodie at a renowned hotel here last night (May 24).
The annual dinner was organised in collaboration with SDNU, Orang Ulu National Association (OUNA) and Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA).
On Sibu’s SDNU and SIDS, Uchi said they had organised various programmes to empower Dayak culture and traditions including Bertaboh (playing Iban music instrument), Ngajat (Iban traditional dance), and Manduk Tuak (brewing tuak) competitions.
“We extend our appreciation to all of you who always support our programmes. None of this would be possible without your support,” she added.
Meanwhile, in her speech, Doris expressed hope that local elected representatives would provide financial support for the association to organise more programmes, including Niti Daun.
“Therefore, I would like to announce an allocation of RM15,000 to SIDS Sibu as the main organiser of the Pre-Gawai celebration,” she said.
At the event, Bawang Assan assemblyman Datuk Seri Wong Soon Koh allocated RM10,000, while Ngemah assemblyman Anyi Jana allocated RM5,000 in Minor Rural Project (MRP) funds to SIDS Sibu.
