By Shikin Louis
SERIAN, June 1: In a swirl of traditional beadwork, feathers, and joyous music, Kampung Taee was transformed into a living canvas of culture today as more than 1,000 people joined the annual Gawai Parade 2025—marching, dancing, and cheering through the heart of the village.
The 5km Birarak (parade) wound its way through scenic kampung roads, as both participants and villagers turned the occasion into a vibrant celebration of Bidayuh heritage.
Many households lined the route, warmly welcoming parade-goers with delicious snacks, refreshing drinks, and words of encouragement, creating a festive and communal atmosphere that bridged generations.
From elders in ceremonial attire to children in modern interpretations of traditional dress, the display reflected a living culture—not one confined to museums, but one thriving in everyday life.
The rhythmic beat of gongs and drums carried the procession forward, while the scent of home-cooked delicacies wafted from verandahs, adding a sensory richness to the experience.
Among the day’s highlights was the appearance of nearly 20 Bidayuh beauty queens, gracefully adorned in traditional costumes. Their presence captivated the crowd, symbolising the strength, elegance, and evolving role of Bidayuh women in preserving cultural narratives.
The event was officiated earlier in the day by Tebedu assemblyman Dr Simon Sinang Bada, who praised the strong community turnout and encouraged the younger generation to take pride in their roots.
“As we enjoy the music, dances, traditional food and tuak, let us also remember the values of mutual respect and cooperation that have kept our community strong.
“Let us pass these traditions down to our younger generation, so they too will understand the richness of our culture,” he said.
Also present were Anglican Bishop Datuk Danald Jute, Serian District Council chairman Dato Peter Minos, Serian Pemanca Jacques Kantuh, Kampung Taee village chief KK Prisca Agin, and Taee Gawai 2025 chairman Johannes Ridu.
Now in its 55th edition, the Taee Gawai Parade has been held annually since 1970, serving as a living testament to the village’s cultural unity and enduring traditions.
This year’s programme featured traditional Bidayuh dance performances such as Tolak Bala and Tigal Semangat Padi, alongside karaoke open mic sessions and food stalls offering authentic Bidayuh cuisine—transforming the village into a vibrant hub of heritage, laughter, and celebration.
The celebration was also supported by Pepsi Malaysia as the main corporate sponsor, which brought a touch of modern flair through attractions like the Glamping Zone, Photobooth, Sampling Booth, Bead Master Showcase, and limited-edition Gawai-themed beverage cans.
Other sponsors included Carlsberg Malaysia, Sarawak Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (SALCRA), Ocean Vantage Holdings Berhad, Fastart Sdn Bhd, Dialog Group Berhad, and elected representatives Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn (Tarat), Datuk Martin Ben (Kedup), John Ilus (Bukit Semuja), and Baru Bian (Ba’Kelalan). — DayakDaily
