Vibrant Gawai Cultural Parade in Kuching Celebrates Sarawak’s Diverse Ethnic Heritage
KUCHING (June 15): Today, the streets of Kuching burst into vibrant colors and cultural richness as the Gawai Cultural Parade took center stage. This exciting event showcased 111 groups, including 13 beautifully decorated vehicles, representing the diverse ethnic communities of Sarawak and their traditional attire. A special highlight was the participation of a group from the Kadazan Dusun ethnic community in Sabah.
A Spectacular Cultural Extravaganza
From 2 pm to 5 pm, the parade began at the Tun Jugah Waterfront building, offering spectators a magnificent display of cultural heritage. The event drew large crowds, emphasizing unity and appreciation among the various communities in Sarawak and Sabah.
Datu Ik Pahon Joyik, president of the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA), joined a delegation led by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas. The delegation also included prominent figures such as Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Minister Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, Deputy Minister of Transport Datuk Dr. Jerip Susil, Serembu assemblyman Miro Simuh, Bukit Semuja assemblyman John Ilus, Tebedu assemblyman Dr. Simon Sinang Bada, Opar assemblyman Billy Sujang, and Anielia Siam, the deputy permanent secretary of the Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Ministry.
Deputy Premier: Sarawakians United Despite Weather Challenges
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas praised the unity of Sarawakians, stating that they remain united irrespective of “rain or hot weather.” He likened the varying weather during the Niti Daun Gawai Dayak Parade 2024 to the challenges faced by Sarawakians, noting that the participants’ high spirits remained undampened.
“It is a testament to the Sarawakian spirit in moving towards a developed state by 2030, while strengthening unity, racial, and religious harmony in Sarawak,” Uggah remarked during the parade at Kuching Waterfront.
A Showcase of Unity and Harmony
Reflecting on the Niti Daun Gawai Dayak Parade 2024, Uggah commended the event for its splendid display of cultural diversity from all races and religions in Sarawak. He highlighted the beauty of people from various backgrounds celebrating Hari Gawai together, demonstrating their commitment to preserving unity in the region.
Uggah also praised the efforts of the Gawai Dayak Sarawak Celebration 2024 working committee chairman Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn for successfully organizing the event. The Niti Daun Gawai Dayak Parade 2024 featured a total of 111 contingents with over 3,000 participants, beginning at the Tun Jugah Building and culminating at the Old Court House Square Tower in Kuching Waterfront.