Vibrant celebration of Dayak heritage

Parade not just about celebrating culture but also about preserving it for future generations, say participants.

SARAWAK’s Dayak communities dazzled in their intricate traditional costumes, accompanied by decorated floats and musical instruments, at the annual Gawai cultural parade in Kuching.

The June 15 event, held in conjunction with the Gawai harvest festival, featured 3,300 participants across 111 contingents and 13 floats.

For the participants, the parade was not just about celebrating their culture but also about preserving it for future generations.

Members of the Sarawak Kayan Women Association contingent posing for a photo at the end of the parade. — Photos by ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/The Star

“It showcases the rich cultural heritage among the Dayak communities of Sarawak, namely the Iban, Bidayuh, and Orang Ulu, especially in terms of costumes and accessories,” said Datuk Ik Pahon Joyik, president of the Dayak Bidayuh National Association.

“This event is crucial for showcasing our cultural heritage and fostering a love for our traditional costumes among the younger generation.”

Ik Pahon noted that most contingents included both young and old members.

The Kampung Tematu contingent featured giant replicas of the ‘tambok’, ‘tampi padi’ and chicken basket.

“This ensures continuity in appreciating their own culture and heritage so that it doesn’t die out,” he added.

As the parade’s organising secretary, he noted that contingents came from all over Sarawak, with three Sabahan groups invited under the Kadazan Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA).

“Next year, we may invite participants from outside Sarawak, such as the Dayak of Indonesia and indigenous communities from other parts of the world.”

The contingent from Kampung Tematu, a Bidayuh village near Kuching, attracted attention with large-scale replicas of traditional farming tools like the “tambok” (woven basket) and “tampi padi” (winnowing tray).

Bidayuh women resplendent in their traditional costumes for the Gawai Dayak parade.

Contingent leader John Pada said they wanted to showcase their village’s heritage to everyone, especially the younger generation.

Leonora Natra, a contingent member, emphasised the importance of cultural events for heritage preservation.

“I’m very proud to wear my traditional costume.

Beauty queens from the Orang Ulu, Bidayuh and Kadazan Dusun communities share the stage at the parade.

“While we enjoy modern amenities, we also want our culture to be maintained,” she said.

Connie Eli, a Kayan member of radio station Wai FM’s contingent, agreed, highlighting the significance of experiencing cultural traditions firsthand.

“Modernisation is good, but here at the parade, I get to see and experience the different cultures and traditional attire of various ethnic groups,” he said.

Abang Johari (centre) beating a traditional drum to flag off the parade.

Sarawak KDCA chairman James Samid said Sabahans living in Sarawak were happy to be part of the parade.

“This is the second time we were invited. The parade is important for strengthening ties between indigenous groups in Sarawak, and we can promote our culture and costumes,” he said.

The parade began at the Tun Jugah Building with the Bidayuh “pisien” ritual to seek blessings and a bountiful harvest.

The Gawai Dayak parade is a spectacular sight of traditional costumes and accessories.

Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg was the guest of honour, along with Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.

Despite a sudden downpour halfway through the parade, participants marched enthusiastically towards the Kuching Waterfront.

Kampung Tematu’s efforts were rewarded with the best contingent award in the Bidayuh category.

Other winners included Raban Betong 2024 A (Iban), Sarawak Kenyah National Association (Orang Ulu), and Sarawak Agriculture Department (government departments/private sector).