Bau Gawai Parade nearly triples in size; 2,000 participants, 91 contingents march 2.8km under sunny weather in traditional attire

Close to 2,000 participants from 91 contingents march through Bau during the Bau Gawai Parade, showcasing cultural attire and traditions in a 2.8-kilometre procession.

By Amanda L

KUCHING, May 23: The biennial Bau Gawai Parade nearly tripled in size this year, drawing close to 2,000 participants from 91 contingents with Chinese and Malay groups joining alongside the Bidayuh community, as they marched along a 2.8-kilometre route under sunny weather.

Deputy Minister of Transport (Riverine and Marine) and Tasik Biru assemblyman Datuk Henry Harry Jinep said the strong turnout reflected growing participation in the cultural event, which began in 2024 with about 800 participant

Henry speaking to reporters after the parade at the Bidayuh Cultural Centre on May 23, 2026.

“This year we saw almost 2,000 participants. Some even joined without registering after seeing the atmosphere.

“Starting from the Bidayuh Cultural Centre at about 4.30pm, the 2.8-kilometre procession was completed in under two hours in hot weather,” he told reporters after the parade at the Bidayuh Cultural Centre today.

The parade showcased traditional attire, customs and cultural heritage in conjunction with the Gawai Dayak celebration while also promoting unity among Bau’s communities.

“We plan to continue organising the parade on a biennial basis and are considering holding future editions in the morning,” he explained.

Exterior view of the Bidayuh Cultural Centre in Bau.

He added that this year’s edition was particularly significant as it marked the completion of the Bidayuh Cultural Centre, which he said should serve as a living space for cultural activities rather than merely a physical landmark.

“When we talk about a cultural centre, it must be filled with cultural programmes and activities.

“If we only have a beautiful building without events like this, then something is missing,” he said.

The Tasik Biru assemblyman said the Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA) had expressed satisfaction with the quality of the completed Bidayuh Cultural Centre.

“I need to hear feedback from the association because this centre is for them. So far, they are happy with it,” he said, adding that efforts are ongoing to secure additional funding for future improvements and activities.

Built under the RM9 million Projek Rakyat (People’s Project) initiative, the centre is scheduled to be officially opened by Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg on June 22 at 10am. The facility features a 1,000-capacity grand hall, exhibition and gallery spaces, meeting rooms, a canteen, and a traditional Baruk as its centrepiece, and is intended as a cultural symbol for the Bidayuh community. — DayakDaily