BETONG: The 'Gawai Mangkung Tiang' celebration at the Penurin Longhouse is not merely a symbol of thanksgiving following the completion of a new longhouse construction, but it also serves as a symbol of the spirit of unity and cooperation among the people in developing a harmonious and prosperous community.
Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development and Layar Assemblyman, Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu, said the festival stands as a token of success for the local residents who worked hand-in-hand to establish a united community with strong leadership at the longhouse level.
He said this while attending the Gawai Mangkung Tiang celebration at Rumah Sibat Banyan, Penurin, on Friday.
According to him, the spirit of togetherness demonstrated by the local residents throughout the event proves that the value of unity remains strongly practiced among the Iban community.
Datuk Gerald also expressed his delight at seeing the warm welcome extended by the residents, as well as the presence of guests from various areas who returned to celebrate the occasion together.
He noted that the homecoming of those working away from home during the festive season proves that they still cherish their roots and continue to maintain family ties and the spirit of togetherness, which is the core of Iban society.
In connection with this, he hoped that the spirit of 'segulai sejalai' would continue to be empowered among the community to strengthen relationships and social harmony, especially in conjunction with the upcoming Gawai celebration.
In the meantime, he also reminded the public to always prioritise personal and family safety throughout the festive season.
Meanwhile, Betong Member of Parliament, Dato Dr Richard Rapu, described the Gawai Mangkung Tiang celebration as an important platform for preserving cultural heritage and strengthening the identity of the Iban community.
He also expressed his appreciation to Tuai Rumah Sibat Banyan and all residents of the Penurin Longhouse for successfully completing the construction of the new longhouse, which he described as the result of consensus and commitment from the local community.
According to him, the younger generation needs to be continuously exposed to traditional customs and culture so that the heritage of the Iban community can be preserved and passed down to future generations.
The event was also attended by approximately 800 visitors, including residents from four nearby longhouses, namely Rumah Panjai Saka, Rumah Panjai Maja, Rumah Panjai Remabong, and Rumah Panjai Entanak, who came to enliven the celebration.
Also present were Datuk Gerald's wife Datin Rosemarie Wong, Betong Division UKAS Officer Tony Malang Chabu, Betong District Iban Community Pemanca Norman Ngumbang, Penghulu Sebastian Randy, Penghulu Ajang Tibu, Councillor Tebari Megong, and Councillor Jantie Miai. -UKASnews
