KUALA LUMPUR: The Kaamatan Festival and Gawai Day reflect Malaysia’s rich tapestry of traditions and the harmony of its multicultural society, says Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia.
In a post on the official Facebook account of Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, His Majesty said the diversity of Malaysian culture is manifested through the celebration of these festivals.
“The celebrations are not only a sign of gratitude at the end of the harvest season but also a reminder for all citizens to always be thankful for the blessings and fortunes bestowed upon them, in accordance with their respective beliefs and practices,” read the post, Bernama reported.
His Majesty and Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, the Queen of Malaysia, also extended greetings to Malaysians celebrating the festivals.
Kaamatan Festival and Gawai Day are offerings of thanks following the end of the harvest season.
Sabahans celebrated the Kaamatan Festival yesterday while Sarawakians will observe Gawai Day today.
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof called on the people to continue to defend Malaysia’s harmony in diversity, strengthen the ties of brotherhood and preserve unity.
He said this when wishing a Happy Kaamatan Festival to the entire Kadazan Dusun, Murut and Rungus community, particularly in Sabah.
Fadillah said just like other festivals, Kaamatan is a manifestation of the racial diversity and cultural richness of the community in Malaysia, who live in peace and harmony regardless of racial, religious and cultural background.
“With its theme of ‘Kaamatan For All’, let’s celebrate the festival with joy, strengthen ties of kinship and be grateful for the sustenance and good harvest.
“May our harvest this year and the years to come continue to overflow, bringing with it goodness, success and prosperity to all.
“Happy Kaamatan Festival, Kotobian Tadau Tagazo Do Kaamatan,” said Fadillah, who is also Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister, in a post on Facebook yesterday.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the Kaamatan Festival and Gawai Day are proof that harmony, tolerance and consensus can unite the people of Malaysia as one big family regardless of race, religion and background.
He said these festivals not only symbolise gratitude for their harvest but reflect the rich tradition and cultural heritage of the people of Sabah and Sarawak.
“May the Kaamatan Festival and Gawai Day celebrations this year bring goodness, prosperity and a brighter future for all Malaysians, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak. Kotobian Tadau Tagazo Do Kaamatan and Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai!,” he posted on X.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi also extended similar greetings, saying he hoped that the festive season brings overflowing cheerfulness, love and sustenance to everyone.
“Happy Kaamatan Festival and Gawai Day to all friends and families in Sabah and Sarawak.
“Both festivals illustrate the richness of culture, customs and traditions and are symbols of harmony in the diversity of the people of Malaysia.
“Kotobian Tadau Tagazo Do Kaamatan and Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai!” he said in a Facebook post.
