Traditional games, Datun Julud dance competition to light up state-level Gawai Dayak celebration
KUCHING (May 24): Traditional games from the Orang Ulu, Bidayuh, and Iban communities, along with a Datun Julud dance competition, will be among the main highlights of this year's state-level Gawai Dayak celebration.
Telang Usan assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau announced that one of the key events will be the Gawai Dayak Traditional Games, to be organised for the first time at the FORUM Cultural Headquarters in Miri.
The games will be held during the day on June 12 and 13, featuring traditional sports and activities from various Orang Ulu ethnic groups, as well as the Bidayuh and Iban communities.
'In the evening of June 12, there will also be a Traditional Datun Julud dance competition.
'This competition highlights original Datun Julud dance styles featuring traditional rhythms and movements,' he said during Malam Gawai Orang Ulu at the Bazaar Gawai Dayak 2025 on Friday night (May 23).
He explained that the competition is specifically for groups of eight performers, and it aims to preserve the authentic form of the Datun Julud dance.
'Contemporary versions often include unfamiliar floral patterns. To preserve the authentic form, the committee is organising this competition for those who can perform the original style.
'The traditional Datun Julud competition is not exclusive to the Orang Ulu only. People from various backgrounds like Chinese, Iban, even non-indigenous, who are skilled in performing the traditional Datun Julud dance are welcome to participate,' he said.
The prizes are RM5,000 for first place, RM3,000 for second, and RM2,000 for third.
Dennis, who is also President of the Kayan Association of Sarawak, said this year's Gawai will focus on Orang Ulu culture as part of the rotation of leadership among the Orang Ulu, Bidayuh and Iban communities. community dance competition Dennis Ngau Gawai Dayak lead traditional games
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