Nanta: Pre-Gawai celebration in Song reinforces unity, cultural heritage
Lidam Assan (left) and Nanta (second left) led the Song District Niti Daun in and around Pekan Song.
KAPIT (May 17): Minister of Works Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi recently officiated the Mantar Gawai Pelilih Menua Song – Pre-Gawai Dinner held at the Song Community Hall, an event rich in Iban traditions and a celebration of unity among the diverse communities in the district.
In his speech, Nanta expressed his appreciation for being part of a meaningful cultural gathering, highlighting that the annual dinner is attended by people from all walks of life and showcases unique Iban customs such as berpantun, beramban, betabuh, ngajat, pekit kumang , and pekit keling .
'This event is not only unique but serves as a symbol of unity and harmony among the races, customs, and cultures in Song district,' said Nanta.
Held every May ahead of Gawai Dayak on June 1 and 2, the dinner also serves to reinforce the importance of preserving ancestral traditions. He emphasised the need to continue cultural events like the Pekit Kumang Dayak pageant contest, which celebrates identity and promotes socio-economic activity.
'Traditional Iban attire featured in Pekit Kumang is now recognised not just in Sarawak, but also internationally,' he noted, adding that criticism claiming such attire undermines cultural values is misplaced and should no longer be an issue.
Referring to this year's Gawai theme, 'Beserakup, Betulung, Anang Rindang' (Unite, Help Each Other, Don't Be Complacent), Nanta called on the people of Song to remain united and cooperative to ensure continued progress and development in the Song district and the broader Kapit Division.
He reminded attendees that 'Anang Rindang' serves as a call to avoid complacency in the face of development and challenges, and to remain focused on community advancement.
'Many development projects are in the works and being implemented across the Kapit Division. These efforts require not only stable political conditions and racial harmony, but also the full support and cooperation of the people,' he said.
Nanta urged the community to continue supporting the government and elected representatives to ensure that development initiatives can proceed smoothly.
Among those present at the dinner were Katibas assemblyman Lidam Assan, Political Secretary to the Minister of Works Ambrose Abong Bugek, Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak Watson Awan Jalai, Kapit Resident Elvis Didit, Song District Officer Harry Bruce Edwin, Song OCPD DSP Rowney Michael Jalak, Temenggong Jatmit Untam, Pemanca Temenggong Toh Tze Hua, Pemanca Lim Eng Hock, and many others. alexander nanta linggi Gawai Song District
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