By Karen Bong
KUCHING, March 6: The Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF) Gawai Dayak Open House and Parade 2026 is set to return to Rumah Veriland in Engkeranji, Betong on June 6, playing a pivotal role in showcasing Sarawak’s unique cultural diversity to the world in line with Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah highlighted the significance of the festival, saying it holds a special place in the hearts of Sarawakians, particularly within the Dayak community.
“Gawai is a celebration of thanksgiving after the harvest season, a time when families and communities come together to express gratitude, renew bonds of friendship, and honour traditions preserved for generations,” he said when addressing a press conference at Ridgeway in Jalan Ong Tiang Swee today.
Abdul Karim also noted that Gawai reflects the warmth, hospitality, and strong sense of community that Sarawak is known for, adding that hosting the festival in Betong provides an excellent opportunity to highlight the district’s cultural identity while creating economic opportunities for local entrepreneurs, artisans, and businesses through tourism activities.
“The STF Gawai Dayak Open House and Parade will play an important role in showcasing the unique cultural diversity of Sarawak to the world. Today’s travellers are not simply looking for places to visit, but they are looking for stories, experiences and connections. Gawai celebrations offer precisely that: a window into the traditions, values and community spirit that make Sarawak truly special,” he said.
STF assistant secretary general Awang Saifeluddin Awangku Karim, representing STF chairperson Audrey Wan Ulok, shared details of the event, which will kick off with the Gawai Parade in the morning, featuring colourful cultural troupes, decorated contingents, and community groups.
The Gawai Open House will follow from 5pm to 10pm, with a Gawai Concert running from 10pm until midnight.
The concert will feature local Sarawak artists like At Adau , a renowned singer from Kalimantan, as well as guest singers from Sabah, fostering a cross-border Borneo cultural collaboration.
“The event is expected to attract 2,000 to 5,000 attendees, including Sarawak leaders, community representatives, tourism partners, media, and domestic and international tourists.
“Visitors can also take part in glamping and picnic activities organised by Borneo Glamping at Nanga Mujau Campsite,” he said.
Activities include traditional pansuh cooking classes, handicraft and cultural workshops, river-based eco experiences, outdoor skills sessions, and environmental conservation talks.
Guests can choose to stay in a contemporary longhouse, or opt for camping and glamping experiences, blending tradition with comfort. Packages can be booked via sarawak.travel/2026-openhouse.
Abdul Karim commended STF and all partners for their dedication, noting that initiatives such as this help preserve Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage while supporting tourism growth and creating economic opportunities for local communities.
He also encouraged media and tourism stakeholders to continue promoting the festival, which he believes will become one of the vibrant cultural highlights leading into Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
“Together, let us continue working hand in hand to position Sarawak not just as a destination, but as an unforgettable journey of culture, heritage and human connection. With our shared commitment, I am confident that Sarawak will flourish as one of the most distinctive and welcoming tourism destinations in the region for many years to come,” he said.
Deputy Youth and Sport Development Minister Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu and permanent secretary to MTCP Morshidi Fredrick were among the distinguished guests present at the event. — DayakDaily
