KUCHING, May 31: Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr James Jemut Masing says Sarawak Gawai Dayak should be organised only by recognised non-governmental organisations (NGOs), which he termed as “the custodians of State Gawai Dayak”.
The three NGOs are Sarawak Dayak National Union (SDNU), Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) and Orang Ulu National Association (OUNA).
“It was these three NGOs, since Gawai Dayak was recognised in the ‘60s by the Sarawak government as a Dayak cultural festivity, who were given the honour to organise State Gawai (celebrations) every year.
“Gawai Dayak belongs to the Dayak community. It is ours! Therefore, it is ours to keep. Keep it we must. It is ours to organise.
“Let us make Gawai Dayak the knot that binds and the glue that seals all Dayak communities as one,” he said in his Gawai message today.
The Parti Rakyat Sarawak president reiterated his call on all Dayaks to stay united and not to be divided further.
“Let us use Gawai Dayak as a cultural festivity to be enjoyed by all Malaysians. Selamat Gawai Dayak Gayu Guru, Gerai Nyamai, lantang senang nguan menoa,” said Masing. — DayakDaily
