BETONG: Two seven-year-old ‘Bujang Berani’ stole the spotlight with their Iban ‘Ngajat’ dance performance at the Betong Division-level Gawai Dayak parade here yesterday.
The duo, who are classmates from SK St Augustine were part of the cultural troupes who took part in the grand parade.
Johannes Jonathan Igat and Leonard Rentap showcased their graceful moves and entertained the crowd with their Ngajat performance.
Johannes’ mother, Luga Busut expressed her immense happiness and pride in witnessing her youngest son’s bravery in performing before such a large audience.
“Johannes began to learn the art of ‘Ngajat’ at the age of six from his uncle and school teacher.
“He has since showcased his skills at school events and at the longhouse in Kampung Tuai Rumah Rokayah Melanjan Sepak, Betong,” said the mother-of-three.
Luga mentioned that Johannes loves to engage in Ngajat, dance, and singing during his free time.
“I will continue to give moral support for my son’s passions, hoping that he will preserve his cultural heritage while excelling in his studies,” she said.
Meanwhile, Leonard from Kampung Pok, Betong, the eldest son among two siblings, was also not shy of the crowd where he performed the ‘Ngajat’.
His aunty, Diana Ninie said he has been learning ‘Ngajat’ both in school and from the elders in the longhouse.
“I’m truly proud of my nephew and hope to see him continue his passion in ‘Ngajat’,” she said.
Earlier, the parade, organised by Betong Resident’s Office, spanned a distance of 1.8km and included 36 contingents, consisting of over 1,500 participants from longhouses, non-governmental organisations, primary and secondary schools, as well as government and private agencies in the Betong division.
The parade commenced at 7.45 am from the Betong Sports Complex, passing through the centre of Betong town.
Participants showcased their respective traditional attire, representing ethnic groups such as Iban, Bidayuh, Orang Ulu, Melanau, Kadazan Dusun, and others.
The parade also featured a captivating lineup of Gawai Dayak-themed decorative vehicles.
This event was part of a three-day Gawai Dayak open house programme organised by the Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF) and supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts.
Deputy Premier and Bukit Saban assemblyman Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas earlier flagged off the event and also participated in the parade.
Also present were Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development and Layar assemblyman Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu and Betong MP Dr Richard Rapu.
