By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, May 22: The richness of Bidayuh heritage took centre stage last night (May 21) at the Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025, as the community celebrated its cultural roots through traditional music, dance, and attire during the Bidayuh Cultural Night.
Held at the MJC Night Street Market here, the event was part of the ongoing Bazar Gawai Dayak 2025 and featured a special cultural segment organised by the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA).
It drew enthusiastic crowds who were treated to unique and vibrant performances representing the distinct identity of the Bidayuh people.
Sarawak Minister for Education, Innovation, and Talent Development, Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, said the showcase not only highlighted the community’s rich traditions but also played a vital role in fostering appreciation of Bidayuh heritage, especially among the younger generation and visiting tourists.
“The Bidayuh community, through DBNA, has been given a dedicated slot to present their cultural heritage tonight, and I warmly welcome everyone to this year’s Bidayuh Cultural Night,” he said when officiating the event.
He stressed that this approach supports the broader goal of preserving cultural traditions and promoting them to the public as part of the Gawai celebration.
“This event serves to introduce and elevate the cultural heritage of the Bidayuh community to the wider society,” he said.
Sagah, who is also Tarat assemblyman, added that cultural nights like these offer meaningful platforms to deepen public understanding and appreciation of Sarawak’s diverse Dayak cultures.
“It is through such events that we can nurture pride in our roots and inspire greater cultural awareness among both locals and visitors,” he noted.
The Bazar Gawai Dayak 2025, which runs from May 15 to 25, continues to attract more than 1,000 visitors each evening.
Beyond the cultural showcases, the bazaar also features a bustling marketplace where local entrepreneurs sell traditional food, crafts, and souvenirs, contributing to both community pride and local economic empowerment. — DayakDaily
