MIRI: Many Sarawakians, Gawai celebrants in particular, lauded the state government’s directive to not permit ngabang (visiting) during this coming Gawai Dayak as part of its efforts to curb the spread of Covid-19.
“It is for everyone’s safety, so it is the right thing to stop the ngabang tradition just for this time,” said community leader Penghulu Randi Elon.
“Of course, a lot of people feel very sad because they cannot go back to their respective hometowns for this special festive occasion, but it’s one of those things that we must all accept,” he said.
As for Adum Liu, he urged the people to be patient and until the virus can be contained, so that they can celebrate Gawai for many more years.
“We must be patient until the disease is contained. We can always celebrate Gawai next year,” he said.
Spanski Steven, Youth Parliamentarians at Parlimen Belia Malaysia (PBM), said that although it was not an easy decision for the state government to ban ngabang, they (government) are doing it for a greater purpose.
“Not allowing Gawai visiting was not an easy decision made by the state government, which has to think in the greater interest of the people and nation.”
Meanwhile, housewife Jennifer Ringgit encouraged celebrants to look at the situation from a different perspective.
“We must adhere to the state government’s decision. After all, it is for the safety of the rakyat.
“Besides, look at it from another angle — it will be a very special Gawai because it will be very different from past celebrations,” she said.
For Lungan Akit, although she is sad, she couldn’t go back to her longhouse for Gawai, she is willing to make that sacrifice if it means Covid-19 is eradicated for good.
“This would be my first Gawai without my relatives in the longhouse, but it’s okay as long as we win this fight against Covid-19,” said Lungan.
