SIBU, Sept 4: Sarawak M.O Gala Night is one of the better platforms to promote the customs and culture of the Dayak community, says Datuk Snowdan Lawan.
Speaking at the event last night, the Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts said throughout his involvement with the organising of Sarawak M.O Gala Night which started in 2013, the activity had attracted a growing following.
“It used to be held on a smaller scale but tonight the gala has attracted people from various walks of life and races. The audience present tonight is not only made up of the Dayak community but also our brothers who are Malay and Chinese,” he said in his speech text which was read out by his representative, Ngemah assemblyman, Anyi Jana.
Snowdan said the promotion of Dayak customs and culture at the gala night was the main attraction, citing the showcase of Pua Kumbu fashion as an example.
He added that Dayak entrepreneurs especially the youths were also involved in the success of Sarawak M.O 12 Gala Night.
“It can develop the spirit of youth and entrepreneurs among the Dayak community so that they can compete in a healthy manner in displaying their respective creativity.
“This is definitely the starting point where our Dayak youth have such a high spirit and can compete in whatever field they venture into, as the saying goes: ‘stand as high, sit as low as other nations’,” he said.
Snowdan praised M.O Sarawak and the Sarikei Dayak Talent Association for successfully organising the Sarawak M.O 12th Gala Night.
He also announced an allocation of RM10,000 for Sarawak M.O while Anyi also contributed RM7,000 to the association.
The event was also attended by Miss Universe Malaysia 2020, Francisca Luhong James, local Sarawak artists such as Ramles Walter, Angela Lata Jua, and famous Malaysian composer Ajai. — DayakDaily
