Gawai Dayak 2025 celebrated with tradition, togetherness at Rumah Kechendai

Borneo Post

3 days ago

The longhouse residents gathered for the celebration in a joyful atmosphere. – Sarawak Public Communications Unit photo
SELANGAU (June 1): The Gawai Dayak 2025 celebration was joyfully held at Rumah Kechendai, Kepayang Jaya, Sungai Arip, bringing together around 250 residents from 27 families in a vibrant showcase of culture and unity.
Tuai Rumah Kechendai Kalob, who also serves as chairman of the Village Security and Development Committee (JKKK) Kepayang Jaya, said the Gawai Dayak festival is more than just a celebration—it is a vital tradition that strengthens the bonds among longhouse residents.
'This is the time when those working in urban areas return home to celebrate with their families. Gawai is a moment for reunion, especially for those living far away in Peninsular Malaysia. It strengthens bonds within the community,' he said.
Tr Kechendai also highlighted the importance of preserving customs and traditions, stating that Gawai is a platform to uphold the cultural identity of the Dayak people.
He said traditional rituals such as berancau tikai, mupu antu rua, miring, bedara, ngalu petara, and Ngirup Ai Pengayu were carried out during the celebration.
Cultural expressions like bertaboh (traditional drumming) and ngajat (traditional dance) were also featured prominently.
The community also conducted a Sembayang Berkat Bilik ceremony to express gratitude to God for past blessings and to seek protection and prosperity for the coming year.
Tr Kechendai expressed his appreciation for the development brought by the Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) government, especially improvements in basic infrastructure such as paved roads and 24-hour electricity supply.
'Five years ago, returning home for Gawai meant a three-hour journey by river. Today, we have a tarred road reaching our village and reliable electricity,' he shared.
Meanwhile, Missy Anak Sandin, head of the Women's Bureau of JKKK Kepayang Jaya, expressed pride in maintaining the tradition of makan serumpu, or communal dining on the longhouse veranda (ruai).
A wide variety of traditional dishes were served, including pansuh (bamboo-cooked meat), pekasam (fermented fish), and jungle vegetables such as upa pantu and bamboo shoots. Exotic meats such as venison, civet, and fresh river prawns also featured on the menu.
Traditional desserts like penganan cuan, penganan tatok, and ketupat added to the festive spirit.
'The tradition of makan serumpu must be preserved by continuing to prepare and serve traditional foods,' she said.
The celebration also included various activities and competitions, including a lucky draw and a special appreciation ceremony for six senior citizens in the community, recognising their contributions and honoring their presence during the celebration. celebration community Gawai Dayak lead Rumah Kechendai