KUCHING: The Sekretariat Rukun Negara (SRN) Sarawak Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025, held at Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus from May 19 -21 turned out to be a vibrant celebration of Sarawak’s diverse cultural heritage.
The event brought together communities of all backgrounds in a spirit of harmony, marking a colourful and meaningful tribute to the Gawai festival.
Organised by the Swinburne Sarawak Sekretariat Rukun Negara (SSSRN) in collaboration with the Sarawak Department of National Unity and Integration and the Sarawak Arts Council, the programme aimed to foster greater unity and understanding among younger generations through the arts.
“At Swinburne Sarawak, we are committed to not only academic excellence but also cultural sustainability and community engagement,” the university said in a statement.
“This event exemplifies how the younger generation can connect with and celebrate our shared cultural heritage.”
The three-day bazaar featured a wide variety of engaging activities, including artistic demonstrations, traditional folk dances, cultural exhibitions, and stalls selling authentic Dayak crafts, clothing, and food.
Visitors had the chance to experience local delicacies and appreciate the rich traditions of the native communities.
“Among the highlights were traditional craft-making demonstrations by the Orang Ulu and Iban communities, performances of indigenous musical instruments such as the Tabuh Iban, and showcases of traditional clothing-making techniques.
“The Ngajat dance enthralled audiences and invited participation through interactive sessions with performers,”it said.
Visitors also explored exhibitions of Dayak beadwork, traditional garments, and culinary delights such as manok pansuh.
Close to 70 small- and medium-sized traders took part, offering a broad selection of goods, from clothing and cosmetics to food and beverages.
The event also featured participation from non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and cultural associations including the Ngajat Asal Iban Association (NGASI), Sarawak Dayak Iban Association (ASADIA), Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA), and the Sarawak Kayan Association.
Contributions from other higher education SRNs in Kuching and Samarahan further strengthened the event’s collaborative spirit.
Support from key sponsors, Ghee Hua Co Sdn Bhd and Lok Thian Group of Companies, helped ensure the event’s success.
The opening ceremony was officiated by Giri Anak Nyareng, Deputy Director of the Sarawak Department of National Unity and Integration, and graced by Batu Lintang assemblyman See Chee How.
