By DayakDaily Team
BINTULU, June 2: Sarawak’s iconic longhouse communities, which offer some of the most unique cultural experiences in the world, from traditional handicrafts and authentic Dayak cuisine to age-old customs and rituals, must be preserved and continuously showcased so that the world can better understand Sarawak through the heritage of its Dayak people.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Dato Sri Tiong King Sing emphasised the importance of safeguarding living cultural heritage as a key tourism asset that distinguishes Sarawak on the global stage.
He said the experiences such as those found in Sarawak’s longhouses cannot be replicated elsewhere in the world, making them a powerful draw for international tourists seeking authentic, meaningful, and story-driven travel experiences beyond sightseeing and photography.
“Today’s travellers are no longer just looking for beautiful destinations. They are seeking real experiences with cultural depth and stories behind them. Sarawak’s longhouses offer exactly that,” he said in his text speech when officiating the Gawai Day Open House 2026 celebration held at Rumah Panjang Dato’ Raymond Phen Plen in Sebauh today.
Tiong also commended the organising committee led by Tuai Rumah Dato’ Raymond Plen for their warm hospitality and efforts in hosting the celebration, which featured traditional performances including the miring ritual, pampat drumming, and the ‘Ngelaluka Temuai’ cultural showcase.
“These performances are not only unique and captivating, but they also reflect the richness of Sarawak’s cultural heritage, which must be preserved and passed down to future generations,” he said.
He added that the presence of international guests, including the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing, media representatives, and participants of Tourism Malaysia’s familiarisation (FAM) trip reflected the growing global appreciation of Sarawak’s cultural heritage.
He further emphasised that longhouses are among the most distinctive community-based tourism products under the Malaysia Homestay Experience Programme, noting their role in promoting rural tourism while strengthening local economies.
Tiong also addressed misconceptions about the Iban community, stressing that such visits allow outsiders to witness firsthand the harmony, modernity, and progressive lifestyle of longhouse communities while maintaining strong cultural identity and unity.
“The longhouse is a symbol of unity built on cooperation, mutual assistance, and shared responsibility. This spirit remains strong to this day,” he said.
He added that preserving cultural heritage not only benefits younger generations but also creates economic opportunities through tourism, handicrafts, traditional food, and community-based activities.
“Rumah Panjang Dato’ Raymond Plen is one example of how cultural heritage continues to live and evolve alongside societal progress. With that, I hope the community here will continue to preserve this heritage identity,” he urged.
Concluding his speech, Tiong extended his Gawai greetings to the Dayak community, wishing them continued unity, prosperity, and well-being.
“Selamat Hari Gawai, gayu guru gerai nyamai, lantang senang nguan menua,” he said. — DayakDaily
