BY JAMES WONG
KUCHING: Thousands flocked to the Gawai Dayak open house at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here today (June 1).
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and other Dayak leaders jointly hosted the celebration.
Upon arriving, guests were welcomed with the traditional sounds of sape music along with vibrant decorations showcasing the Dayak culture.
Many attendees can be seen in their traditional costumes, which added to the dynamic and colourful atmosphere of the festivity.
Earlier today, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg graced the event.
The New Sarawak Tribune had the opportunity to speak with members of the public about their thoughts on the grand event.
Sedu Talek, 57, retiree
I believe it’s a positive development that this event is being organised to keep up with the tradition of open houses. It serves as a valuable opportunity to celebrate and appreciate our Dayak culture.
Daisy Dom, 48, retiree
This is a wonderful event because it helps foster closer relationships among people and strengthens our bonds with people of different ethnicities. Furthermore, it is also important for the younger generation to be exposed to our cultural traditions so that they don’t miss out and become disconnected.
Sulaiman Sa-Ee, 32, financial administrative assistant
Due to the pandemic, there were no open house programmes for almost two years, and I am glad to see that this event is now taking place, bringing people together to celebrate and connect. For future celebrations, I hope it can be expanded to other divisions, as the Dayak tribe can be found throughout Sarawak.
Tan Saw Chin, 45, teacher
This is my first time joining such a grand Gawai open house celebration with my family, and it has provided a unique opportunity to expose my children to the multiracial and multicultural aspects of our society. I look forward to attending similar cultural events in the future to continue nurturing these values in our children.
Sim Yong Juan, 46, teacher
This year’s Gawai celebration is the first one I have attended since the pandemic began. I am delighted to experience the joy and unity that come with such cross-cultural celebrations. I hope the celebrations and festivities can be expanded to include a larger audience.
Catharina Tipong, 50, public servant
This open house is special to me because it is my first time celebrating Gawai outside of my own village, as we usually celebrate with our family and visit our closest friends. It is remarkable to witness people from all walks of life and different races coming together to celebrate Gawai Dayak.
