KUCHING: The Gawai Dayak celebration continues to serve as a symbol of unity and harmony among Sarawak’s multi-racial communities as it was celebrated in an atmosphere of inclusivity through the Gawai Dayak Lighting Switching-On Ceremony in Kuching City.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian said programmes of such nature reflect Sarawak’s identity as a state that values cultural diversity and social harmony.
According to him, the practice of celebrating major festivals together regardless of race and religion remains one of Sarawak’s greatest strengths in preserving unity among its people.
“It shows that Sarawak is highly inclusive,” he said when speaking at the event here on Tuesday.
Datuk Amar Dr Sim also took the opportunity to extend Gawai Dayak greetings to all Sarawakians who will be celebrating the festival.
He also reminded the public to prioritise road safety throughout the festive season, especially when travelling back to their hometowns.
“If you drink, do not drive. If you drive, do not drink,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said the concept of the longhouse, which is always open during the Gawai celebration, reflects the openness of Sarawak society in embracing cultural diversity and traditions.
According to him, the values of togetherness and harmony practised by the people of Sarawak must continue to be preserved to ensure the state’s long-term stability and prosperity.
“The longhouse is the true symbol of an open house because every door remains open during the Gawai celebration.
“It is this spirit of openness that forms the backbone of unity among Sarawakians in celebrating harmony and cultural diversity,” he said.
He also called on the people of Sarawak to remain united and work together to safeguard the peace, stability and well-being enjoyed by the state from any influence that could divide society.
In a related development, Dato Wee said the younger generation would become Sarawak’s “greatest harvest” in the future, and efforts by the government to provide free tertiary education would serve as an important catalyst in producing quality human capital.
He also explained that the design of the Gawai-themed decorations and attire used during the ceremony took into account the cultural sensitivities of the Dayak community, including consultation with the relevant communities before being officially adopted.
The event was further enlivened by the switching on of Gawai Dayak-themed decorative lights as a symbol of the festive spirit of the Dayak community celebration in Sarawak. -UKASnews
