Gerawat finds joy in nature, painting and loves animals

NATURE has always held a special place in Deputy Minister in the Premier of Sarawak’s Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring) Datuk Gerawat Gala’s life – with trekking, fishing and exploring the outdoors among his favourite pastimes.

He also has a passion for painting, which began during his secondary school days at Marudi Secondary School in the early 1970s.

In an exclusive interview with Sarawak Tribune yesterday (Oct 15), Gerawat shared his interests outside politics, his inspiration for painting and his love for nature and animals.

ST: What do you enjoy doing during your free time?

Gerawat: I enjoy nature, going for walks, trekking and fishing. If I have time, I also enjoy playing golf, gardening, meeting friends and catching up with family members at home.

ST: What is something the public may not know about you?

Gerawat: Many people probably do not know that I am a nature lover. I enjoy trekking and fishing, and being close to nature.

Another favourite pastime is painting. I used to paint a lot when I was in secondary school, and that passion is still within me. 

I just need to find some quiet time because creativity comes when you are on your own and have the space to paint.

ST: Who inspired your interest in painting?

Gerawat: I was inspired by one of my former secondary school teachers, a talented artist who was skilled in various mediums, including acrylics, oils, watercolours, charcoal and pencil sketching.

That was during my time at Marudi Secondary School in 1972 and 1973. I also developed a passion for batik painting.

ST: If you had not become a politician, what career would you have pursued?

Gerawat: I was happy in the legal profession. Before entering politics, I practised law and managed my own legal firm in Kuching for 13 years. 

Before that, I was general counsel for Shell Malaysia and had also worked in private legal practice.

Politics has been an exciting and rewarding chapter in my life, with my legal background proving invaluable in fulfilling my responsibilities and navigating the complexities and challenges of public service.

ST: Is there a particular plant or flower you enjoy?

Gerawat: Not any particular plant or flower. I just enjoy nature. Going into the jungle is refreshing, and you get to observe the trees, plants, insects and occasionally animals.

ST: Do you keep any animals?

Gerawat: Back home in Bario, we keep a lot of buffaloes. At home, I keep dogs. I love dogs.

They are mixed breeds and local breeds. I used to like Golden Retrievers because they have a mild temperament and are responsive and obedient.