By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, June 1: China’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Ouyang Yujing, joined Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Dato Sri Tiong King Sing in celebrating Gawai Dayak at a longhouse in Bintulu today, offering the diplomat a firsthand experience of Dayak culture and traditions.
Ouyang and his delegation were special guests at Rumah Tiut Usit, one of four longhouses visited by Tiong during his annual Gawai ngabang tour across the Bintulu Division.
In a statement, Tiong described the ambassador’s presence as a reflection of the close friendship between Malaysia and China.
“I greatly appreciate the ambassador and his delegation for joining us to experience the Gawai celebration, learn about Dayak culture and witness the uniqueness of Sarawak’s cultural heritage, which is a source of pride for all of us,” he said.
Besides Rumah Tiut, Tiong also visited Rumah Jalang Seman, Rumah Saging Layang and Rumah Eyus Esek.
The Bintulu MP said the visits were more than festive calls, as they also provided an opportunity for him to engage directly with longhouse residents and hear their views, concerns and development needs.
During the visits, he highlighted the importance of preserving the harmony and mutual respect that have long defined Sarawak’s multicultural society.
He also stressed that Dayak customs, traditions and celebrations such as Gawai Dayak remain valuable cultural assets that should continue to be safeguarded and passed on to future generations.
“Culture not only reflects the identity of a community, but also serves as a foundation that strengthens unity and enriches Sarawak’s heritage,” he said.
Tiong expressed appreciation to the tuai rumah, organising committees and residents for their warm hospitality, noting that the participation of people from diverse backgrounds reflected the strong spirit of togetherness among Sarawakians.
He also invited local communities as well as domestic and international tourists to attend the 2026 Gawai Day Open House with the Community and Tourists at the longhouse of Raymond Phen tomorrow (June 2).
The event, he said, will offer visitors an opportunity to experience the customs, culture and hospitality of the Dayak community during the harvest festival celebration. — DayakDaily
