KUCHING: The Bidayuh Community Cultural Art programme serves as a vital platform in safeguarding the community’s cultural heritage and artistic traditions.
Tarat assemblyman Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn said such programmes nurture the younger generation’s appreciation for their cultural legacy, ensuring that the identity of the people remain vibrant amid the rapid pace of modernity and technological advancement.
“At present, we witness swift and dynamic social shifts within the Bidayuh community.
“Yet, it is very heartening to see our younger Bidayuhs exhibit a profound dedication to safeguarding our cultural heritage, arts and ancestral customs.
“This should be commended and I certainly hope that our Bidayuh youth will continue to safeguard our culture and customs,” he said in his speech during the Bidayuh Community Arts Night here last night (May 24).
Sagah, who is also the Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, stressed the importance of embracing fundamental values such as respect, cooperation and unity while celebrating the rich tapestry of events like traditional dances, music performances and diverse culinary experiences.
“For traditional Bidayuh, Gawai is a manifestation of willingness to do things to please a more powerful force, which is seen in the process of ‘pisumpa’ and ‘pisien’.
“Offerings to appease the spirit of their ancestor translated in the ‘pisien’ referred to the Bidayuh as Gawai ‘mparing sawa’, held in honour of their ancestral spirit to award them on the bounty harvest in their paddy field,” he added.
He also urges the public to celebrate Gawai with joy and gratitude for the bountiful harvest.
“Let us pledge to safeguard our heritage, which serves as a cornerstone of our national identity,” he added.
Also present during the cultural night were Deputy Transport Minister cum Tasik Biru assemblyman Datuk Henry Harry Jinep, Serembu assemblyman Miro Simuh and other distinguished guests.
