The backbone of Sarawak

Standstill: One of many empty worksites in Sarawak during the Gawai Dayak period.

EVERY Gawai Dayak season, work in Sarawak grinds to a halt. Kuching city was deserted on Monday and yesterday, appearing more like a ghost town.

Cafes, bars and restaurants were closed, some until the end of the week. Construction sites have shut down. Factories dusted and locked up. Supermarkets, even the large franchises, have their shutters down.