Miri to host two-day Dayak Cultural Carnival this June to celebrate unity, tradition
Dennis beats the gong to mark the launching of the Miri Divisional Gawai 2025 Karaoke Competition.
MIRI (April 26): Miri is set to come alive this June with a two-day Dayak Cultural Carnival led by the Orang Ulu community, celebrating the rich traditions and talents of the Dayak people.
Scheduled for either June 13 or 14, the carnival will feature a state-level Dayak Beauty Pageant (for both women and men), a Sape group competition, and traditional games such as a blowpipe contest.
Organising chairman and Telang Usan assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau said preparations are progressing smoothly, with the final programme to be confirmed after a meeting on April 27.
'The community's strong support is very encouraging, and hopefully the prizes will help attract more participants,' he said during the launch of the 19th Miri Division Gawai Dayak Celebration's Dayak Songs Karaoke Contest 2025 at Boulevard Shopping Mall here today.
The karaoke competition saw 16 participants competing for the champion title.
Both the champion and runner-up will perform during the finals of the Miri Divisional Gawai Kumang, Keligit, Dayung Sangon, and Keling Contest on May 25.
In his speech, Dennis praised the evolution of Gawai Dayak celebrations in Miri, noting how they have grown from simple dinners into full-fledged festivals featuring activities such as blood donation drives and children's art competitions.
He also called on all communities to continue fostering unity and harmony.
'No matter our background, unity must come first,' he said.
As part of his commitment to supporting local talent, Dennis pledged RM10,000 towards the Dayak Karaoke Contest. Dayak Cultural Carnival Dennis Ngau miri
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