Pre-Gawai event signifies PWOUM's outstanding leadership
Kijan (fifth left) hands over a token of appreciation to Gerawat on stage.
MIRI (May 5): The pre-Gawai celebration hosted by Persatuan Wanita Orang Ulu Miri (PWOUM) here on Sunday night gathered over 500 guests.
In his address, the guest-of-honour Deputy Minister in Sarawak Premier's Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala congratulated the association for continuing to be active and visible in Miri and Marudi, playing a meaningful role in community development through various programmes meant for Orang Ulu womenfolk.
He credited the association's continued success to strong and transparent leadership, particularly under the present chairwomanship of Kijan Toynbee.
'Kijan is truly a people-focused leader who continues to serve the community even after retiring as political secretary to the chief minister.
'Her passion is clear through her involvement in community-based initiatives that are healthy and inclusive, especially traditional and contemporary dance,' said Gerawat, the assemblyman for Mulu.
On the pre-Gawai event, he regarded it as being more than just a festive gathering.
'It serves to strengthen friendships and nurture interethnic unity.
'It is a very healthy activity to promote unity and a harmonious society, which Sarawak is well known for and which is something that we want to preserve.'
This year, the Orang Ulu community has been entrusted with the honour of hosting the state-level Gawai Dayak celebration, with Gerawat being appointed chairman of the working committee responsible for organising four major programmes set throughout this month.
Among the highlights is the Gawai Bazaar, to be held from May 15 to 25 in Kuching, featuring 170 stalls offering various items – from food and beverages, to handicrafts.
This May 12 and 13, the Gawai Carnival will be taking place in Miri, marking the first time that such an event is held outside Kuching Division.
Apart from food and handicrafts, the carnival will also feature traditional games, cultural shows, and the Orang Ulu Keligit pageant.
In support of PWOUM's continued efforts, Miri Mayor Adam Yii pledged RM5,000 to the the organisation, while Telang Usan assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau, who is also Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) chairman, contributed RM10,000.
Gerawat also announced an allocation of RM15,000 for the association. Gawai gerawat gala lead Persatuan Wanita Orang Ulu Miri
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