Dayaks urged to celebrate Gawai with gratitude, not excessive spending
BINTULU (May 25): The Dayak community should celebrate the upcoming Gawai Dayak festival with gratitude and simplicity, avoiding excessive spending that could become a financial burden, said Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai.
Speaking when officiating at the Bintulu Division-level Pre-Gawai Dayak 2025 celebration at a local restaurant yesterday, Sikie emphasised the importance of financial stability after the holidays, especially for families with school-going children or university students who will need funds for education expenses.
'I understand that celebrating Gawai is a joyous occasion for everyone involved. However, I strongly encourage a modest celebration, especially for those with school-going children or those in university who will need funds for education expenses after the Gawai break,' he was quoted as saying in a Sarawak Public Communications Unit report.
Sikie, who is Kakus assemblyman, also encouraged the community to use the festive season as an opportunity to reunite with relatives and friends, particularly those living in urban areas.
'After this Pre-Gawai celebration, many will return to their longhouses to celebrate Gawai Dayak properly in their hometowns,' he added.
Furthermore, he stressed the importance of unity and future planning among the Dayak community, especially those returning to their longhouses during Gawai.
'For those living in towns like Bintulu, this is the time to reconnect with family. I urge everyone, whether returning home or staying in the longhouse, to come together and plan for their community's development,' he said.
The event was jointly organised by four major associations namely the Sarawak Dayak Iban Association (Sadia), Orang Ulu National Association (Ouna), Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA), and Sarakup Indu Dayak Sarawak (SIDS).
To show appreciation for the organisers' efforts, Sikie announced a RM30,000 contribution to the organising committee.
Additionally, Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development Dato Majang Renggi also contributed RM20,000.
The event was further enlivened by the 'Pekit Kumang' contest in conjunction with Pre-Gawai Dayak 2025.
Delfina Damun Kiran was crowned 'Kumang', taking home RM3,000 along with a crown, a sash, a trophy, finger flowers, and a participation certificate.
Second place ('Lulong') went to Amyder Mikey Drake, who received RM2,500, while Zeona Deour Jacob came in third ('Selinggar Matahari') receiving RM2,000, along with other prizes. Dayak community Gawai Dayak John Sikie Tayai lead
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