By Karen Bong
KUCHING, May 22: The symbolic handover of festive packages to Dayak frontliners on duty during Gawai Dayak reflects the Sarawak government’s commitment to inclusivity under the Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg emphasised that the gesture marked the first time such aid is extended to Dayak personnel, including those in uniformed agencies, who sacrifice time with their families to fulfil their duties during the celebration.
“During the Hari Raya contribution handover, I proposed to Dato Sri Fatimah (Abdullah) that we extend the same appreciation to our Dayak friends serving during Gawai Dayak.
“They carry out their responsibilities diligently, even while others are celebrating with their families,” he said when addressing the Sumbangsih Gawai 2025 presentation ceremony at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly Complex today.
Abang Johari stressed that under the Sarawak’s development strategy, inclusivity remains a central pillar.
“This initiative stems from that concept. It is not just about Hari Raya, but also Gawai Dayak and Chinese New Year, where those on duty are shown our respect and appreciation,” he added.
The Premier thanked Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah and her team for implementing the initiative through the Welfare Department, saying sincere aid — whether for festive needs, education, or other forms — carries great meaning.
He also highlighted that starting next year, the Sarawak government will provide free university education for all Sarawakian students enrolled at State-owned universities.
“Of course, such policies come with costs, but if the intention is sincere, God will help us grow our sustenance. Alhamdulillah, Sarawak’s revenue has increased, and we are sharing this with the people through State funds,” he said.
Abang Johari expressed hope for future festive initiatives to involve not only government agencies but also women’s associations and male volunteers to prepare and distribute packages to frontliners.
He concluded by extending festive wishes to all celebrating: “My wife and I would like to wish our Dayak friends a joyful Gawai Dayak 2025 — Gayu Guru Gerai Nyamai, Lantang Senang Nguan Menoa. May we always be safe and continue to prosper in the years ahead.”
Premier’s wife Datin Patinggi Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Minister of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki and Deputy Minister for Women, Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development Datuk Rosey Yunus were among those present. — DayakDaily
