By DayakDaily Team
SERIAN, June 1: The long-standing tradition of the Gawai parade in Kampung Ta-ee has once again drawn over 1,000 locals and visitors, celebrating the unique and vibrant Dayak culture.
According to a press release, the procession began with a creatively constructed float made from bamboo, followed by the Bi-Bukar Bidayuh community dressed in traditional and warrior costumes.
Visitors who joined the procession danced joyfully to the music while admiring the beauty of the village along the 2km route.
The organising chairman, George Oscar, expressed his delight, stating, “We are elated to welcome thousands of local and international visitors who have come together to celebrate Gawai with our community.
“This event transcends a mere parade; it is a vibrant showcase of the arts, culture, traditional dances, and music of the Bukar Sadong group of the Bidayuhs.”
The press release further stated that the community provided visitors with the most exquisite traditional cuisines as well as the 2024 Limited Edition Harvest Festival Pepsi Cans.
“We aspire for all attendees to leave with cherished memories that they can share with their friends and family,” George added.
“Gratitude was also extended to Pepsi Malaysia, the main sponsor of the Kampung Ta-ee Gawai Parade 2024.
“Pepsi proudly sponsored the construction of a grand stage for Kampung Ta-ee’s performers and the creation of the float for the procession.
“The float, shaped like a rice field, symbolises the long-standing tradition of honouring Borneo’s rich cultural heritage and is dedicated to fostering unity and artistic appreciation,” read the press release.
“Pepsi has provided an invaluable platform for our local community to promote our culture to the world,” George remarked.
Meanwhile, Amy Gan, vice president of Marketing at Etika, expressed, “We are delighted to be part of Kampung Ta-ee Gawai, as Pepsi’s journey in East Malaysia is driven by a sincere commitment to preserving and promoting the unique traditions and artistic heritage of the region.
“We are honoured to support and uplift the local creative community. This year, we produced a captivating music video and song titled ‘Pepsi Harvest Festival Anthem’.
“Witnessing both visitors and the Kampung Ta-ee community dance to our music during the parade was truly heartwarming.”
Furthermore, the press release stated that Pepsi has introduced the 2024 Limited Edition Harvest Festival Pepsi Cans, which will be exclusively available in East Malaysia, to celebrate diversity and unity.
“These cans, crafted by talented East Malaysian artists Daphne Siaw and Charles Mawan, showcase intricate patterns and symbols indigenous to Sarawak and Sabah. Seamlessly blending diverse cultural motifs, beloved by all, they symbolise the spirit of unity and celebration.
“Looking ahead, the Kampung Ta-ee community will proudly participate in the 2024 state-level Gawai Dayak Parade on June 15 in Kuching City.
“We invite everyone to mark their calendars for this event to witness the stunning float, sponsored by Pepsi and crafted by the Kampung Ta-ee community. Visitors will also be able to collect the 2024 Limited Edition Harvest Festival Pepsi Cans during the State-level Gawai Dayak Parade,” it said. — DayakDaily
