By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Feb 25: Gabungan Orang Asal Sarawak (GOAS) founder Peter John Jaban has called on the Sarawak government to consider increasing funding for the annual Gawai Dayak Parade, while also proposing that the procession follow the natural flow of the river to reflect the Iban philosophy of life, sustenance and cosmic order.
In a statement congratulating the newly appointed Gawai Dayak Organising Committee 2026, Peter John noted that over the years, the Gawai Dayak Parade has grown into one of Sarawak’s most significant cultural highlights, drawing more than 3,000 participants from over 100 contingents representing the State’s diverse communities.
“With the continued commitment and support of the Sarawak government, this annual celebration has flourished as a platform celebrating Dayak traditions while strengthening unity and community pride,” he said, conveying the Dayak community’s appreciation for the confidence and privilege entrusted to them in organising the parade each year.
Building on that success, he respectfully urged the government to consider enhanced financial allocation for the annual parade, saying greater funding would allow organisers to expand its scale, improve overall quality and diversify participation, including inviting more contingents from across Sarawak as well as Dayak communities from Sabah and Kalimantan, Indonesia.
“With greater resources, the parade can be elevated into a premier international cultural event that enhances Sarawak’s global visibility, strengthens tourism and benefits all Sarawakians,” he said.
On the cultural dimension of the parade, Peter John proposed that if it is held in Kuching, the procession should commence from the ulu (upriver) and proceed according to the natural flow of the river.
He explained that in the Iban worldview, the river is not merely a physical feature but represents the flow of life, sustenance and cosmic order.
“Our forefathers lived by the rhythm of the river, and direction carried meaning beyond geography,” he said.
Among elders, he noted, the expression “mali nanjak ai” serves as a reminder not to move against harmony and balance, reflecting the philosophy that human actions should align with nature rather than oppose it.
“In ceremonial contexts especially, symbolic direction matters because it reflects intention, respect and spiritual awareness,” he added.
Peter John emphasised that Gawai Dayak is not simply a festive gathering but a sacred season of thanksgiving, renewal and honouring the blessings of the land and ancestors.
Ensuring that the parade moves in harmony with the natural flow of the river, he said, would symbolise continuity, prosperity and alignment with adat values handed down through generations.
He stressed that the proposal was not a criticism of past practices but a sincere effort to deepen cultural authenticity and reinforce the spiritual meaning of the celebration.
“Gawai Dayak is a celebration that reflects our gratitude, identity, unity and cultural pride as the people of Sarawak.
“By observing such symbolic alignment, we affirm that Gawai Dayak remains rooted in its true heritage while growing in scale and recognition,” he said.
Peter John also proposed that the parade conclude with a vibrant Gawai Food Fair in Padungan, offering participants and visitors an opportunity to experience the rich culinary heritage of the indigenous peoples of Borneo while fostering a festive, family-friendly atmosphere.
Concluding his message, he wished the new committee wisdom, integrity, inclusiveness and teamwork in their leadership.
“May Gawai Dayak 2026 truly embody the spirit of ‘Segulai Sejalai’ (walking together in unity),” he said. — DayakDaily
