Organiser expects thousands to turn up at upcoming Gawai Carnival in Miri
MIRI (June 10): Thousands of visitors are expected to converge on the Federation of Orang Ulu Associations Malaysia (Forum) building here for the two-day 'Traditional Gawai Carnival', kicking off this Thursday (June 12).
According to Mulu assemblyman and the organising committee chairman Datuk Gerawat Gala, the carnival is the next major event in this year's Gawai Dayak celebration, following the success of the Gawai Dayak 2025 Bazaar held at the Batu Kawa Township in Kuching last month.
'This carnival showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Orang Ulu community and is aimed at preserving and promoting traditional practices and values,' he said in a press conference, held at the Forum building yesterday.
The 'Traditional Gawai Carnival' here is jointly chaired by Telang Usan assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau and Baram MP Dato Anyi Ngau.
According to Dennis, a total of 13 traditional events and competitions have been lined up throughout the two days.
'All the activities are based on traditional games, many of which are no longer seen or known by the public. Therefore, we welcome everyone to the Forum Cultural Centre to witness and participate in these festivities,' he said.
In addition to the competitions, visitors can also look forward to sampling a variety of traditional dishes and visiting stalls selling homemade handicrafts and products, from June 12 to 14.
'It is also a good platform for the local entrepreneurs and small businesses to generate income, while helping to preserve our cultural identity,' added Dennis.
Deputy Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas has been invited to officiate at the opening ceremony this June 13.
Meanwhile, Dennis said that the evening of June 12 would feature the 'Datun Julud' (traditional dance) competition, as well as 'sape' (traditional boat lute) competition.
'Twenty groups have confirmed their participation in the 'Datun Julud' competition, and another 20 will be showcasing their sape-performing skills.'
The grand highlight of the carnival would be the Miss Gawai Sarawak 2025 pageant, on June 13.
'Thirteen finalists from across Sarawak will be vying for the crown.
'Tickets for the event are priced at RM20 per person. So far, a total of 1,500 tickets have been made available for purchase,' confirmed Dennis.
Adding on, he said due to the limited parking space at the Forum premises, a free shuttle bus service would be provided to visitors.
'The bus will be plying between the venue and Miri Sentral Terminal, from 7am until midnight on each day.
'We encourage the public to make full use of this service to facilitate smoother traffic and also better experience for all attendees,' said Dennis.
Also present was Bintulu Resident Datu Nyurak Keti, who is also Forum president.
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