By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, June 2: This year’s state-level Gawai Dayak celebration is set to be more vibrant with the expected attendance of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who will be in Kuching on June 21.
In a TVS news, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the Prime Minister’s presence reflects recognition of the Dayak community’s contribution, as well as Sarawak’s distinctive spirit of unity that continues to strengthen the State.
He added that this year’s celebration will also feature key highlights, including the Niti Daun parade, which will be held a day before the main festivities.
“On the 20th, we will hold the Niti Daun parade in Kuching as part of the state Gawai celebrations. The following day, on the 21st, the State-level Gawai celebration will take place, graced by the presence of the Governor of Sarawak as the guest of honour.
“The Prime Minister is also scheduled to attend, along with the Deputy Prime Minister and the Premier of Sarawak,” he told reporters at the 2026 Gawai Dayak Open House held at Unifor Complex here yesterday.
Uggah earlier emphasised that Gawai is more than a Dayak festival, describing it as an important platform for strengthening unity and fostering closer ties among Sarawak’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious communities.
He noted that the traditional “Ngabang” practice during the festive season reflects mutual respect, goodwill, and the strong sense of togetherness that defines the state’s social fabric.
“People from all backgrounds come together to celebrate Gawai, and the Dayak community takes great pride in this spirit of unity.
“The Ngabang tradition is deeply rooted in Sarawak’s culture. During Hari Raya, we visit our Muslim friends; during Chinese New Year, we visit our Chinese friends. Whatever the celebration, it is shared across all communities. This is what makes Sarawak one of the most harmonious states,” he said.
He stressed that maintaining this harmony is essential to ensure continued progress and development for the benefit of all Sarawakians. — DayakDaily
