MIRI: Excitement is brewing as preparations are underway for the highly anticipated Miri-level Gawai Dayak 2024 celebration.
This year, the celebration will be organised by the Orang Ulu community, particularly the Saban ethnic group. Previously, the event was organised by the Bidayuh.
The event’s deputy organising chairman Usat Bilong said the rotation among the ethnic groups highlights the collective commitment to preserving and promoting Dayak culture while fostering inclusivity and unity within the community.
“The Miri-Level Gawai Dayak 2024, is scheduled to be held on May 21 at Eastwood valley Golf and Country Club Miri.
“This year, the event promises to be even more spectacular, featuring the highly anticipated beauty contests: Orang Ulu/Kumang Iban/Dayung Sangon and Belawan Keling for male participants.
“Deputy Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas is expected to attend the event,” he said, adding the programme will be welcoming around 800 to 1,000 guests.
In an exciting update for this year’s Miri-level Gawai Dayak celebration, the organisers have announced a significant change to the beauty contest criteria, extending the age limit for contestants.
Previously capped at 25 years old, the age range for participants has now been extended up to 28 years old (for female category), reflecting a more inclusive approach to celebrating beauty and culture.
Single females between the ages of 18 to 28 are warmly welcomed to participate, regardless of their ethnic background within the Dayak community.
This year’s competition apart is the introduction of lucrative prizes, designed to recognise and reward the outstanding achievements of participants.
The champion of each category will receive a substantial cash prize of RM3,000, along with an impressive scholarship valued at RM15,000 sponsored by Fajar College.
The first runner-up will be awarded a cash prize of RM2,500, accompanied by a scholarship worth RM10,000 sponsored by Fajar College.
The second runner-up will receive a cash prize of RM2,000, complemented by a scholarship of RM7,000 sponsored by Fajar College.
In addition, each of the three consolation finalists will be awarded a cash prize of RM1,000, accompanied by a scholarship of RM3,000 sponsored by Fajar College.
For individuals eager to participate in the contest, the registration fee is RM50.
Those interested can easily obtain the registration form through the provided Google link: http://bit.ly/KKDBK2024.
Alternatively, they can reach out to Caroline Siburat at 012-8518938 for assistance with the registration process.
As for guests who wish to secure a table for the event, various options are available to suit different preferences and budgets.
Table prices range from RM2,000, RM1,000, to RM750.
