MIRI: Sarawak Oil Palms (SOP) marked this year’s Gawai celebration with a fresh twist, bringing together employees for its first bowling themed ‘Kasi Jadi Gawai’ Family Day at Megalanes East, Bintang Megamall.
The annual celebration, which drew staff from the company’s various headquarters in Miri, aimed to strengthen workplace bonds while celebrating Sarawak’s rich cultural diversity in a relaxed and festive setting.
Unlike previous years, bowling took centre stage as the main activity, providing employees with an opportunity to interact beyond the workplace in a fun and informal environment.
The event was officially launched by SOP Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Plantation, Tho Kheng Chiang, who rolled the ceremonial opening ball in the presence of the company’s senior management and employees.
Speaking at the event, Tho said the new venue and concept reflected the company’s efforts to introduce fresh experiences while reinforcing the spirit of togetherness among its workforce.
“We are pleased to introduce a new experience for this year’s Gawai celebration by hosting it at a bowling centre for the first time, bringing employees together in the spirit of unity and togetherness,” he said.
Throughout the evening, employees took part in friendly bowling matches while enjoying a spread of traditional delicacies representing Sarawak’s multicultural heritage and the significance of the Gawai festival.
The festive atmosphere was further enlivened by lucky draws offering a range of prizes, with colleagues cheering one another on during the bowling competition.
Tho expressed hope that the celebration would leave employees with lasting memories and stronger relationships with their colleagues.
“We hope everyone has enjoyed the special arrangements prepared for this year’s Gawai celebration and had the opportunity to create meaningful memories with their colleagues. Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai, Ooh Haa!” he said.
The annual Gawai gathering forms part of SOP’s wider employee engagement initiatives, which seek to promote inclusivity, mutual respect and appreciation of cultural diversity across its workforce.
The company said organising festive celebrations throughout the year remains one of its ongoing efforts to foster a harmonious and supportive workplace culture where employees from different backgrounds can come together to celebrate shared values.
