By Karen Bong
SERIAN, June 1: The Dayak community’s unique culture that defined its identity must continue to be preserved as it is an asset not only to them but also for the country, especially in terms of tourism.
Emphasising this, Minister of Communications and Multimedia Gobind Singh Deo revealed that a documentary on Gawai would be screened on TV1 and TV2 this year.
“This is an initiative by my ministry that is aimed at uplifting and promoting the unique culture and traditions of the Dayak community,” he said at a Leader-with-the-People programme at Kampung Triboh in Jalan Gedong, Serian, last night.
“My message to the Dayak community is to take the opportunity of this Gawai celebration to enhance ties among the community as well as foster better understanding and relationship with various races in our country.”
Gobind expressed his appreciation to the people of Kampung Triboh for the opportunity to be with them to celebrate Gawai Dayak this year.
“I am very happy to be here tonight with the people of Kampung Triboh. And tomorrow (today), I will be visiting three Bidayuh villages,” he added.
The harmonious living among the diverse communities in Sarawak, he pointed out, should be an example for all Malaysians to come together to build a new Malaysia that the people are hoping for.
“We will ‘ngirup ai pengayu’ and together we will kick off the Gawai Dayak celebration this year. Gayu guru gerai nyamai and Selamat Hari Kampung Triboh to the entire Dayak community, no matter where you are,” he concluded.
Minister of Works Baru Bian, Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Chong Chieng Jen, Pending assemblywoman Violet Yong, Tanjung Batu assemblyman Chiew Chiu Sing and Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii were present. — DayakDaily
