By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, May 20: Sarawakians can look forward to an extended Gawai Dayak celebration this year as June 3 and 4, 2026 are officially declared replacement public holidays, creating an even longer festive break across the State.
In a statement on Tuesday (May 19), the Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki announced that the declaration was made in accordance with Section 5 of the Public Holidays Ordinance [Cap. 8 (1958 Ed.)] following overlapping public holidays in 2026.
“The Head of State of Sarawak had consented to the declaration of the replacement holidays to ensure the public continues to enjoy the holidays allocated under the ordinance,” the statement said.
Under the arrangement, June 3, 2026 has been declared a replacement public holiday for Wesak Day, which falls on May 31, 2026.
Meanwhile, June 4, 2026 has been declared a replacement public holiday for Gawai Dayak, which coincides with the Birthday of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong on June 1, 2026.
The announcement effectively extends the festive holiday period for many Sarawakians celebrating Gawai Dayak, one of the State’s biggest annual cultural celebrations marked by family reunions, thanksgiving rituals, open houses, and community gatherings.
“The declaration also serves as a replacement for the public holidays provided under the First Schedule of the Public Holidays Ordinance,” it added. — DayakDaily
