Thousands attend Sarawak’s Gawai Day open house

Showcasing diversity: Sarawak’s Orang Ulu ethnic group, Uli Bilong (centre) and friends singing a welcome song at the Sarawak government’s Gawai Dayak Day open house at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching. — Bernama

KUCHING: Sounds of the sape, a traditional musical instrument of the Orang Ulu commu­nity, as well as dance performan­ces from various ethnic groups, were among highlights of the Gawai Dayak Day open house organised by the Sarawak government.

Held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, the event was attended by about 3,000 visitors from diverse racial backgrounds.

Organised by Orang Ulu leaders, the event, from 9am to 2pm yesterday, was graced by the guests of honour Sarawak governor Tun Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.

The programme was also atten­ded by Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Dr Abang Johari Openg and his wife Puan Sri Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang and Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.

Also present were Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Tian, ​​Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala and a line-up of state Cabinet ministers, Bernama reported.

Earlier, the arrival of the guest of honour was accompanied by a parade and a performance of Ngentau Lan’e and Belian Suket by the Sarawak Kenyah National Association, which is often sung by the Kenyah community to welcome guests.

As the chairman of the organi­sing committee, Gerawat, who is also an Orang Ulu of the Kelabit ethnic group, said this year’s open house event provided an oppor­tunity for the community to show­case their culture through clothing and performances to the visitors.

“As the main hosts and organi­sers, we are showcasing our culture to outsiders... not only the Orang Ulu but also other communities such as the Bidayuh and Iban,” he said.

Suzanna Nyuak, 32, said the festive occasion was a platform for Sarawakians to celebrate the festival regardless of their race or religion.

“I was on duty as the receptio­nist for this event, and the warmth of the event was felt when people started coming in.

“For all Sarawakians, especially my family in Kapit, I hope this year’s Gawai Day will give meaning to all of us,” said Suzana, who is from Kampung Nanga Ibau, Kapit.