‘Gawai Antu a platform to uphold Iban heritage’

BINTANGOR (Dec 30): The Gawai Antu celebration not only serves to preserve the cultural identity of the Iban community, but also acts as an important platform for strengthening the ties between leaders and the people.

According to Meradong assemblyman Datuk Ding Kuong Hiing, the celebration also fosters mutual respect among members of Sarawak’s multiracial society.

“This ceremony reflects strong family values, togetherness, and the resilience of customs and traditions passed down through generations of the Iban community, particularly for future generations.

“The Gawai Antu celebration here was held in a harmonious and cordial atmosphere, with active participation from local residents who came together to make this event a success—symbolising unity and the sustainability of cultural heritage in the Meradong area,” he said when met at the Gawai Antu celebration in Rumah Nyawin in Ulu Strass here last weekend.

The celebration involved residents from all five longhouse units of Rumah Nyawin.

For Ding, Gawai Antu is a deeply meaningful traditional celebration for the Iban community serving as a mark of respect, remembrance and gratitude to the spirits of their ancestors.

“On this occasion, we would like to express our appreciation to the residents of Rumah Nyawin for their efforts in preserving traditional customs and culture while ensuring continued harmony and unity within the community.

“We hope celebrations like this would continue in the future so that such cultural traditions are not lost to time,” he added.