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Malay Mail
4 days ago
- Health
- Malay Mail
As Dayaks mark Gawai, Sarawak St John Ambulance founder calls for peace in ‘uncertain and unpredictable world'
KUCHING, June 1 — Gawai Dayak has grown to become a powerful symbol of unity, hope, and aspiration for the Dayak community – the majority ethnic group in Sarawak. Datuk Seri Ang Lai Soon, founder of St John Ambulance Sarawak, noted that Gawai was originally celebrated at different times across various longhouses and villages, marking the end of a successful harvest. 'The ethnic Dayak community then decided to celebrate the event on one day; thus, it's celebrated by all as the most important day by all different Dayak groups. 'It is now one of Sarawak's important gazetted holidays,' he said in his Gawai Dayak message. Ang expressed pride in the Dayak community's achievements and their significant contributions to Malaysia's development and prosperity. However, he also reminded the public that the Covid-19 pandemic is 'still far from over.' 'Some global communities have decided 'to live with the virus' after the majority of the people have been fully vaccinated. 'Still, while we are reopening, I am sure that we will still continue to be careful and vigilant,' he said. Ang went on to lament the continued existence of wars, conflicts, and unrest in many parts of what he described as 'an uncertain and unpredictable world'. 'The people suffer untold miseries and sufferings, especially the most vulnerable: the poor, the sick, the children, the seniors and underprivileged. 'All countries should ideally consider devoting their funds, time and energy to make life safer, happier and more bearable for everyone in this rather difficult, troubled and tumultuous world, instead of production of lethal weapons, especially nuclear weapons with the capacity to destroy the human kind,' he said. He added that universal peace and happiness could be achieved if all nations committed to total disarmament. Trillions of dollars currently spent on arms could instead be used to improve living standards across the globe, he added. 'That will be the day to celebrate.' The universal day of peace Ang also highlighted global inflation and threatening famine caused by geopolitical tensions should be addressed immediately. The much feared climate change and its ill effects on humankind, flora and fauna and the environment is a monumental issue, he said. 'We see such ill-effects already even within our own country as torrential rains and serious floods seem to be occurring with greater frequency,' he said. Intense forest fires caused by prolonged droughts are affecting nations like the United States, Canada, Japan, and Australia, and in the Philippines, typhoons continue to grow in intensity year after year, he said. 'As we celebrate another Gawai festival, let us be reminded again to celebrate in moderation. 'Both humans and Planet Earth must stay healthy for their own sake and that of future generations. 'God bless our people, God bless our country. 'Selamat Ari Gawai, Gayu Guru, Gerai Nyamai! Selamat hari Kaamatan.' — The Borneo Post
Malay Mail
5 days ago
- Business
- Malay Mail
In Gawai address, Tiong vows no Dayak left behind as Putrajaya backs cultural revival, youth skills and inclusive growth
SIBU, May 31 — The government remains steadfast in its commitment to uplifting the Dayak community through inclusive and sustainable development, said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing. In the Gawai Dayak 2025 message, Tiong highlighted that initiatives such as homestay programmes and cultural tourism are not only designed to showcase Dayak heritage, but also to generate employment, stimulate local economies, and embed cultural values into daily life. 'We are also intensifying collaborations with local communities, providing skills training, empowering youth entrepreneurship, and supporting the revitalisation of traditional crafts within contemporary frameworks. 'With targeted and systemic support, we aim to nurture a generation that is culturally rooted yet globally confident,' he said. Tiong also paid special tribute to the elders, artisans, cultural bearers, and spiritual leaders who continue to guide their communities with wisdom and devotion. 'Because of your unwavering dedication, Gawai remains not only a celebration, but a living expression of identity and belonging.' The Bintulu MP stressed that Gawai Dayak is far more than a harvest festival, it is a profound celebration of culture, identity, and togetherness. 'It honours not only the beauty of the land, but the enduring spirit of the Dayak people – their unity, resilience, and deep-rooted connection to their heritage.' As the nation continues to modernise, Tiong urged Malaysians not to leave cultural traditions behind. 'Instead, they should be a compass that guides our development, anchoring our progress in identity, values, and community,' he added. He emphasised that culture is not merely a relic of the past, but the soul of the present and the seed of the future. 'Our duty is not only to preserve it, but to breathe new life into it, making it relevant, meaningful, and empowering for all.' 'Let us be reminded that true progress lies in the well-being of our people, the harmony of our communities, and the continuity of our cultural soul. 'In that spirit, I reaffirm our collective commitment to people-first policies that leave no one behind, ensuring that every community, including the Dayak, shares in the nation's journey forward.' He further said that Gawai is a time for reunion and renewal. 'As we mark this festive season, may we come together in unity and hope for a thriving Dayak community, a vibrant and inclusive Sarawak, and a peaceful, prosperous Malaysia for all. 'Once again, I wish you all a blessed and joyful Gawai. May we walk forward together, hand in hand, towards a brighter, shared tomorrow.' — The Borneo Post
Malay Mail
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Malay Mail
Uggah urges Dayak community to celebrate Gawai moderately, avoid excessive drinking and preserve traditions
BINTULU, May 12 — The Dayak community has been called on to avoid wasteful spending and excessive alcohol consumption during the upcoming Gawai Dayak festival. In making the call, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the festival should instead be celebrated in a moderate and meaningful manner. He pointed out that Gawai is traditionally a time for family and friends to come together in thanksgiving and to share joy. He cautioned that the celebration should not be reduced to drinking sessions that might harm one's health and wellbeing. 'It is not just about excessive drinking. What's more important is strengthening bonds among family members and relatives, especially those who have not seen each other for a long time,' he said when officiating at Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) Kakus' Ngabang Gawai Bersama Timbalan Premier here last night. Uggah emphasised that the true meaning of Gawai Dayak goes beyond festivities and merrymaking. 'It is also an occasion to preserve and showcase cultural heritage and strengthen familial ties within the longhouse community,' he said. He highlighted the importance of traditional elements such as ngajat, traditional music, and poetic art forms such as beramban and bepantun, which are unique to the Iban and wider Dayak community. 'During Gawai, the Dayak community has a valuable opportunity to revive traditional arts and performances that are rarely seen today,' he added. Uggah also stressed that Gawai can serve as an effective platform to attract both domestic and international tourists by showcasing the rich and colourful cultural traditions of the Dayak community. — The Borneo Post
