Latest news with #GagasanAnakDayakSarawak
Borneo Post
24-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Lee: Gawai Dayak Bazaar a symbol of unity, entrepreneurship in Miri
Lee (centre) joined by other guests in a 'ngiling bidai' (rolling of the mat) ceremony to mark the closing of the Miri Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025. MIRI (May 24): The Miri Gawai Dayak Bazaar (GDB) has become a cornerstone celebration for the Dayak community, promoting both cultural unity and economic empowerment, said Minister of Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin. Speaking at the closing ceremony of GDB 2025 in Permyjaya last night, Lee praised the event's transformation over the past 11 years into a platform that nurtures entrepreneurship while showcasing Dayak culture. 'This bazaar has not only provided a platform for Dayak entrepreneurs but has also become a symbol of unity and cultural pride for the entire community,' he said. Lee commended organiser Gagasan Anak Dayak Sarawak (GADS) for their impactful programmes, particularly those focused on leadership development and entrepreneurship. These, he said, are essential in grooming future leaders and equipping locals with business acumen. Lee also emphasized how such initiatives were instrumental in driving socio-economic development while preserving the unique cultural identity of the Dayak community. 'The GDB has emerged as more than just a marketplace. It is an incubator for Dayak entrepreneurship, and a significant contributor to Miri's tourism sector,' he said. He added that the inclusion of the bazaar in the Miri Mayfest 2025 calendar further solidifies its importance as a regional attraction that draws both local and international visitors. Highlighting the role of the Gawai Dayak Bazaar in fostering social cohesion, Lee described it as a powerful unifying force, where people of all ethnicities and backgrounds come together to celebrate shared values and traditions. He congratulated GADS and the participating traders for their hard work and dedication in ensuring the success of the bazaar. 'In my capacity, I will continue lend my voice and support to ensure the ongoing success of this important cultural event,' he assured. Meanwhile, Lee encouraged GADS to aim even higher for GDB 2026 and provide opportunity for more members of the Dayak community to explore the business and trading industry. At the function, he also announced a RM10,000 grant for GADS in support of GDB. Held from May 1 to May 24, the Miri Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025 attracted enthusiastic crowds and featured vibrant displays of traditional food, crafts, and cultural performances. This year's edition hosted around 100 traders under 74 canopies, offering products ranging from food and beverages to handicrafts and locally made goods. Also present at the closing were GADS chairman David Upe and GDB 2025 organising chairman Jimmy Lawie. cultural Dayak culture Gawai Dayak Bazaar lead Lee Kim Shin
Borneo Post
05-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Establishment of Dayak business centre in Miri being proposed
Snowdan (right) greets those attending the 11th Miri Gawai Dayak Bazaar in Permyjaya. MIRI (May 5): Having a Dayak business centre can greatly assist entrepreneurs from this community here. This was highlighted by the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak Datuk Snowdan Lawan in his opening speech for the 11th Miri Gawai Dayak Bazaar at Permyjaya here on Saturday night, where Mayor Adam Yii was also present. 'I'd like to propose for the establishment of a Dayak business centre in Miri. 'In Sarawak, we are fortunate to have ample land and possibly, existing buildings that could be repurposed for this cause. 'This centre could cater to both small-scale and large-scale business operations run by the Dayak community,' he said. Adding on, Snowdan said such a facility could enable the Dayak entrepreneurs to develop business models and explore more opportunities, including into sectors like property development. 'More importantly, the business centre could also serve as a training ground for emerging Dayak entrepreneurs – helping them build capacity, gain market access, and refine their business strategies. 'My vision is for Miri to pioneer this initiative, and eventually, to see a Dayak business centres established in every district in Sarawak.' On a relevant note, Snowdan called upon members of the Dayak community here to venture out of their comfort zone and explore entrepreneurship. 'Today, we see many Dayaks in industries such as offshore, teaching, nursing, and other sectors. While these professions are noble, I encourage our community to look beyond the conventional; to explore entrepreneurship and other emerging industries. 'Let us challenge ourselves to grow, diversify, and innovate.' The deputy minister also advised those already in business to always support one another, so that they could grow and prosper together. 'There is much we can learn from the success of other communities, especially the Chinese. 'One critical lesson is unity – uplift one another, instead of bringing each other down. 'We must rid ourselves of the 'crab mentality' and instead, embrace a culture of encouragement and collaboration. 'The Iban community alone numbers around 900,000 in Sarawak. Though we are not a large group, our strength lies in our unity and mutual support,' he stressed. Snowdan also encouraged Dayak-based non-government organisations (NGOs) here to take advantage of the funding programmes made available by the ministry. 'We offer two main types of funding. The first one is the event's grant for the organisation of events promoting culture and the arts; the second one is Dana Mudahcara (Facilitation Fund) for NGOs to conduct workshops on skills such as traditional costume-making, 'ngajat' (Iban traditional dance) classes, and production of handicrafts. Later, Snowdan announced an allocation of RM20,0000 for Gagasan Anak Dayak Sarawak, in support of its organisation of the annual Gawai Dayak Bazaar. The 11th Miri Gawai Dayak Bazaar is currently taking place in Permyjaya until this May 24. Themed 'Berdagang, Berami, Begawai' (Trade, Gather and Celebrate), this year's edition features 54 food and beverage stalls, as well as 20 handicraft stalls. dayak businesses entrepreneurs lead Snowdan Lawan
