KUCHING: Tadika Sinaran came alive with festive cheer as young learners marked the Gawai celebration with a colourful cultural programme at the school today.
The children came dressed in their favourite outfits and traditional costumes.
The kindergarten said they took part in various activities designed to introduce them to the significance and traditions of Hari Gawai, an important harvest festival celebrated annually by the Dayak communities of Sarawak, particularly the Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu.
Among the highlights of the celebration were hands-on craft activities where children made traditional Gawai headgear, ‘terabai’ (shields), ‘marik empang’ (beaded accessories), and ‘kirip’ (hand ornaments worn by Orang Ulu women).
To immerse themselves further in the culture, the children also listened to traditional Dayak music and learned the basics of the Iban traditional dance, ‘ngajat’, which they have been practising throughout the month during their music and movement sessions.
“We preserve this cultural tradition by celebrating with our children and telling them stories about the event,” Tadika Sinaran said in a statement.
They also extended its appreciation to parents who supported the school’s Gawai Cultural Day through various contributions, making the celebration a joyful and memorable one.
To all families observing the festival, the school wished, “Selamat Hari Gawai! Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai. May this harvest season bring happiness, prosperity, and good health to all.”
