A Night of Celebration and Unity in Kuching
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim Joins Sarawak Leaders for Gawai Dayak Gala
KUCHING: In a night marked by cultural festivities and political unity, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim attended the 2024 state-level Gawai Dayak Gala Dinner at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK). The event, celebrated annually to honor the harvest season, brought together state leaders, community figures, and the people of Sarawak for a memorable evening.
Warm Welcome for the Prime Minister
Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim was greeted by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, and Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan. The high-profile gathering underscored the importance of Gawai Dayak, a festival that reflects the rich cultural heritage and communal harmony of Sarawak.
Highlights of the Gala Dinner
Minister of Education’s Welcoming Speech
In his opening address, Minister of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, who also served as the event’s organizing committee chairman, highlighted the ongoing efforts to discuss matters under the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). He expressed hope that these discussions would yield positive outcomes for the continuity of education in Sarawak.
“The Honourable Datuk Seri Anwar frequently receives our visits at the office in Putrajaya. We look forward to the efforts and hard work invested bearing fruit in the near future. If we reflect for a moment, these outcomes are part of the harvest that we rightfully celebrate during the Gawai festival,” Sagah stated.
The Significance of Gawai Dayak
Sagah also emphasized the cultural and social significance of Gawai Dayak. “Like any other celebration, Gawai Dayak is a festival celebrated to mark the harvest season, and the celebration is also held as a sign of gratitude. The traditional customs of the celebration have been decreasing over time, but the spirit of the celebration continues vigorously with the incorporation of new elements,” he said.
Theme of the Year: ‘Segulai Sejalai’, ‘Indi Awang, Indi Asung’
This year’s Gawai Dayak Gala Dinner was hosted by the Bidayuh community, with the theme ‘Segulai Sejalai’, ‘Indi Awang, Indi Asung’. The theme underscores the unity and collective effort of the diverse ethnic groups in Sarawak. The Premier’s wife, Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tun Tuanku Bujang, also graced the event with her presence, adding to the evening’s significance.
A Celebration of Diversity and Harmony
Cultural Performances and Traditions
The gala dinner featured an array of cultural performances that showcased the unique traditions of the Dayak community. Attendees were treated to traditional dances, music, and ceremonial acts that highlighted the rich cultural tapestry of Sarawak. The incorporation of modern elements into traditional customs was evident, symbolizing the evolving nature of cultural celebrations while preserving core values and traditions.
Political and Social Unity
The presence of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and other state leaders at the Gawai Dayak Gala Dinner signified a strong message of political and social unity. It reflected the collaborative spirit between the federal and state governments in addressing issues pertinent to Sarawak, particularly those related to the MA63 agreement. The event provided a platform for leaders to engage with the community and reaffirm their commitment to the development and progress of Sarawak.
Looking Forward: The Future of Gawai Dayak
As the night drew to a close, the sentiments expressed by the attendees highlighted a shared vision for the future. The Gawai Dayak Gala Dinner not only celebrated the harvest season but also symbolized the hope and aspirations of the Sarawakian people. The theme ‘Segulai Sejalai’, which translates to ‘Together in Unity’, aptly captured the essence of the event.
Conclusion
The 2024 state-level Gawai Dayak Gala Dinner was a resounding success, marked by cultural richness, political unity, and a forward-looking vision. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s participation underscored the significance of the event, reinforcing the importance of cultural celebrations in fostering unity and progress.