By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, June 3: The ‘Brarak and Bipajak Gawai Bisegu’ celebration has been proposed for inclusion in the Sarawak Tourism Calendar, signalling its potential to become a major cultural tourism attraction in the State.
Deputy Minister for Transport Datuk Dr Jerip Susil announced the proposal following a significant surge in participation at this year’s event, organised by the Segu Bunuk Association in Kampung Segu Benuk, according to the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas).
“Last year, the parade featured only six contingents. This year, the number has grown to 21, with an estimated 2,000 to 3,000 participants — a clear sign of its rising appeal,” he told reporters yesterday (June 2).
Now in its third edition, the event is gaining momentum, prompting plans to formalise it as an annual feature in the State’s tourism calendar.
Dr Jerip, who is also Mambong assemblyman, emphasised that the festival’s expansion would depend on community engagement and public response.
“With the involvement of 21 contingents this year, we are confident the festival will continue to grow and feature even more engaging activities in the years ahead,” he added.
Beyond cultural preservation, Dr Jerip highlighted the festival’s value as a community-driven tourism product that unites the Bidayuh community while offering tourists a rich glimpse into local heritage.
“These celebrations offer a valuable platform for communities to express their identity, especially through traditional attire and shared cultural pride. Gawai is a time for us to come together and celebrate as one,” he said.
Also in attendance were Puncak Borneo MP Datuk Willie Mongin, Special Administrative Officer of the Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA) Datu Ik Pahon Joyik, and Padawan Sub-District Administrative Officer Julius Scott Sapong. — DayakDaily
