KUCHING: Sarawak is gearing up for a grand state-level Gawai Dayak 2025 celebration.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah said under the theme ‘Segulai Sejalai’ (Together in Unity), a series of activities have been planned to celebrate the cultural festival, including the Gawai Dayak Open House scheduled for June 1 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK).
“Ahead of that, a Gawai Dayak Bazaar will be held from May 15 to 25 at MJC Batu Kawa here.
“Secondly, there will be a Traditional Gawai Carnival at the Federation of Orang Ulu Associations Sarawak Malaysia building in Miri from June 13 to 14,” he said.
Uggah, who is also the state-level Gawai Dayak 2025 celebration chairman said this in a press conference after chairing the celebration’s main committee meeting at Wisma Bapa Malaysia here Monday (Apr 28).
He said another major highlight will be the Gawai Dayak Parade, which will take place at Kuching Waterfront on June 21, with Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg as the guest of honour on that day.
“The major highlight of the celebration will be the Gawai Dayak Gala Dinner on June 22, also at BCCK.
“Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, and the Premier will be among the distinguished guests,” he said.
Uggah said in conjunction with the celebration, a coffee table book focusing on Dayak culture and heritage will also be launched.
“Time is very short … we just finished (celebrating) Hari Raya. Soon we will be (celebrating) Gawai. And we warmly invite everyone to join us for the festivities,” he said. This year, the Orang Ulu community has been given the honour to host the state-level Gawai Dayak celebration with Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration, and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala appointed as the organising committee chairman.