BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The rich cultural tradition of the Dusun tribe was showcased at the 2025 Panakod Adau Gayoh celebration ceremony on Thursday (May 1) at Pakatan Sang Jati Dusun Multi-purpose hall in Kampong Padang Bukit Udal, Tutong District.
The celebration was themed ‘Saganawoh Nyimpod Amun Pagun’ (Sehati Mencapai Wawasan Negara).
President of Pakatan Sang Jati Dusun Johan Benson explained that Pakatan Sang Jati Dusun (PSJD) is an association of the Dusun tribe in Brunei established in 1960 and is celebrating its 65th anniversary this year.
It is the first formal organisation representing the Dusun tribe in this country and played an important role in declaring the new Dusun tribe as “Sang Jati” which means “our people”, he said.
He added; “The formation of PSJD provided a platform for the Dusun tribe to unite and preserve their culture and customs at a time of rapid social change. Since its establishment, PSJD has grown to include the Dusun population in districts such as Tutong and Belait, especially in villages.” As the President of PSJD, he said, “I really hope for the cooperation of all villages to attend the Panakod Adau Gayoh at the centralised level."
This symbolises the spirit of unity, belonging, and strong support for the cultural heritage that we preserve together.
“This is in line with the declaration by the former president on April 30, 1980 at exactly midnight where the celebration of the Adau Gayoh of the Sang Jati Senegara Community began.”
He reiterated, “It is hoped that in the coming years the entire community, especially the leaders of the Sang Jati community will support my wish. This not only involves cultural activities, but also sports activities held in the name of PSJD.”
This year, for the first time, the PSJD will hold a variety of events such as traditional clothing competitions and performances from villages, although participation is not encouraging, Jati Dusun Johan said.
“The event is not just a celebration, but it is also a manifestation of our appreciation for the customs, noble values and identity of the Dusun community, which is rich in heritage from generation to generation.”
With cooperation between PJSD and the Village Consultative Council (MPK) of Kampong Bukit Udal as well as Kampong Penapar, he highlighted “we have shown that the strength of the community lies in unity and the spirit of working together to shoulder any burdens.”
Panakod Adau Gayoh, he shared, ”also provides an opportunity for the young generation to know, understand and appreciate the culture of our ancestors. This is a platform for us to instil a love for our own culture in the current of rapid modernisation.”
Members of the diplomatic corps as well as village heads and members of mukim as well as village consultative council and guests witnessed cultural performances including Ancayau and Mengalai performance from Art, Culture and Tourism Bureau from MPK Kampong Bukit Udal, Bisaya Sarawak performance and a combined performance from Kampong Rambai, Kampong Merimbun and Kampong Kuala Ungar.
Acting Tutong District Officer Mohammad Sofian Basri was the guest of honour. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
