Gawai Niti Daun parade set for June 20 in Kuching, targets 99 contingents

KUCHING (March 19): The Gawai Niti Daun parade will return to the Kuching Waterfront this June 20, with organisers targeting the participation of 99 contingents from across Sarawak and beyond.

A highlight of the state-level Gawai Dayak celebration, this year’s parade will be led by the Iban community, which has been entrusted as host for the 2026 festivities, according to a Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) report.

The plan was outlined during the first meeting of the Gawai Niti Daun sub-committee today, attended by representatives from government agencies, non-governmental organisations and community groups.

Sub-committee chairman Datuk Jefferson Jamit Unyat, who is also a Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department, said the parade serves as both a cultural showcase and a symbol of unity among the Dayak community.

“The parade is not only a symbol of unity, but also a platform to highlight the uniqueness of Dayak cultural heritage to the wider public,” said Jefferson.

He expressed appreciation for the trust placed in the Iban community to spearhead the organisation of the event, adding that the Kuching Waterfront remains the preferred venue due to its prominence as a focal point for major Gawai Dayak celebrations.

Jefferson noted that previous editions drew strong participation, with 111 contingents recorded during the Bidayuh-hosted celebration in 2024 and 91 contingents during last year’s Orang Ulu-led event.

He said this year’s target of 99 contingents reflects efforts to sustain robust participation while ensuring smooth coordination and effective organisation.

The meeting also focused on early planning, division of responsibilities and coordination strategies to ensure the parade proceeds smoothly.

“Gawai Niti Daun is expected to remain a key highlight of the Sarawak-level Gawai Dayak celebration, further strengthening unity and fostering a deeper appreciation of cultural heritage among Sarawak’s multi-ethnic communities,” Jefferson said.

Also present at the meeting were Engkilili assemblyman Dr Johnnical Rayong Ngipa, who is the parade Deputy Chairman II; Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Datu Sirai Daha, who is the parade Working Secretary; and Special Function Officer at the State Ministry of Natural Resources and Urban Development Lt Gen (Rtd) Datuk Stephen Mundaw.