KUCHING: Everyone is invited to join the Kampung Ta-ee Gawai 2024 celebration on the first day of Gawai.
Centred at Balu Tuda, the village head’s house, at Kilometre 6 of Baki-Riih Road, accessible via the new Baki Bazaar on Mile 32 of the Kuching-Serian Road, the celebration will offer an authentic cultural experience for visitors.
This includes a colourful Birarak (parade) showcasing the Bi-Bukar Bidayuh community in traditional and warrior attire starting from 11am onwards.
According to a statement, visitors to the festival will have the opportunity to savour authentic Bidayuh cuisine, participate in traditional dances, and sing their hearts out during the open karaoke session.
It added that as night falls, visitors will also be able to enjoy the Kumau and Kaleng Gawai beauty contests and be mesmerised by performances from local artistes and cultural showcases.
Its organising chairman, George Oscar, assured that this year’s theme, ‘Bipakat Nagap Adat’ (United to Strengthen Culture and Tradition), promises a unique and unforgettable experience for everyone.
“Come and join us on June 1 for a memorable Kampung Ta-ee Gawai 2024 celebration,” he said.
Meanwhile, Pepsi, with its long-standing tradition of honouring Borneo’s vibrant cultural heritage, has sponsored the construction of a grand stage for Kampung Ta-ee’s performers.
Etika Vice President of Marketing, Amy Gan, pointed out that Pepsi’s journey in East Malaysia has been driven by a genuine commitment to preserving and promoting the region’s unique traditions and artistic heritage.
“Our sponsorship of Kampung Ta-ee’s wonderful parades, celebrations and their new stage is part of that ongoing effort, among many others.
“We’ve been privileged to support and enrich the local creative community. This year, we have also created a wonderful music video and song, entitled ‘Pepsi Harvest Festival Anthem,’ which will be the perfect accompaniment for East Malaysians travelling back to celebrate with their loved ones,” she said.
Complementing the release of their new music video, Pepsi has unveiled 2024’s Limited Edition Harvest Festival Pepsi Cans, which are exclusively available in East Malaysia.
Designed by East Malaysian artists Daphne Siaw and Charles Mawan, Amy stated that these visually striking cans feature intricate patterns and symbols unique to Sarawak and Sabah, seamlessly blending the diverse indigenous cultural motifs beloved by all.
“These beautiful cans are now available during the Kampung Ta-ee event and are the perfect pairing for the celebration,” she said.
