The largest ethnic group in Sarawak is celebrating its annual harvest festival, officially designated as Gawai Dayak Day. The Dayak are known for their bravery and loyalty.
Like other ethnic groups, they have made significant contributions to the peace, security and prosperity of Sarawak, particularly and the country, generally, since the Brooke period.
In cities, towns and villages, the ethnic Dayak, like other major ethnic groups such as Malay, Chinese and Indian, have been running shops, shopping malls, supermarkets and eateries, as well as clinics and hospitals.
The list goes on.
The Sarawak Rangers, Border Scouts and Iban Trackers hold a special place in the history of this country for the role they played in maintaining law and order during the Brooke period, the British colonial administration, the Malayan Emergency, the Confrontation and the unrest in the late 1960s.
We must always remember, with gratitude, the part they played, together with the police and armed forces, in making the country safe for all of us.
Steeped in centuries-old culture with its own symbolic routines and ceremonies, the harvest festival is the most important day for celebration in the calendar of the Iban, Bidayuh, Orang Ulu and other smaller ethnic groups.
Gawai Dayak has been recognised as a public holiday since 1965, and all are welcome to join in the celebrations. The festival celebrates Sarawak’s rich culture, and the unity and strong bond of the community.
Continue reading (Incl. Pic) at: Gawai Dayak - Diversity is our strength
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