KUCHING: The Gawai Dayak Bazaar and Ethnocultural Festival 2026 to be organised in Miri is seen as an important platform in strengthening the state’s cultural heritage through participation at a Sarawak-wide scale and the involvement of the younger generation.

Deputy Chairman II, Penghulu Wilfred Mac stated that the festival which held from 1 to 23 May offers an opportunity for the community to appreciate and continue the cultural traditions of diverse ethnic groups.

“This serves as an opportunity for the younger generation to carry forward our cultural traditions so that the heritage may be preserved,” he said during an interview at the UKAS Studio following the Juh Randau Programme on Tuesday.

He said a variety of cultural activities will be featured throughout the festival including competitions such as Ngajat, Bertabuh, Sape, Kuntau, Gendang Pampat, Dayung Sangon, Keling Belawan, Keligit Orang Ulu and Kumang Iban.

Meanwhile, the programme secretary, Councillor Martin Dinil stated that the festival is inclusive in nature and open to participation from throughout the state.

“The activities are not limited to Miri but are open to participants from across Sarawak,” he said.

He opined participation from various parts of Sarawak in the main competitions is expected to further boost the festival’s appeal.

In the meantime, programme treasurer Dr Mary Calang stated that the support of the Sarawak Government is crucial in ensuring the sustainability of large-scale cultural programmes.

She stated that the initiative is in line with the aspiration to preserve the state’s cultural identity so that it may be inherited by future generation.

The festival which spans more than three weeks also features various artistic performances, community activities and nightly interactive programmes which are expected to attract visitors from both within and outside Miri. -UKASnews

Prepared by: Lonney Jinab Doris
Translator: Suhaila AW