Group proposes more funding to elevate Sarawak’s Gawai Dayak Parade

KUCHING (Feb 26): Gabungan Orang Asal Sarawak (GOAS) has proposed increased funding from the Sarawak government to expand the Gawai Dayak Parade into a larger, higher-quality event with wider participation.

Its founder Peter John Jaban in a statement said enhanced resources would allow the parade to be developed into a premier international cultural showcase, boosting Sarawak’s tourism appeal and global visibility.

“Over the years, the Gawai Dayak Parade has grown into one of Sarawak’s most significant cultural highlights.

“With continued commitment and support from the Sarawak government, it has evolved into a powerful symbol of heritage and harmony,” he said, noting that the event now draws more than 3,000 participants from over 100 contingents.

According to Peter John, additional funding would enable organisers to expand the scale of the parade, improve its overall quality and diversify participation, including inviting more contingents from across Sarawak as well as Dayak communities from Sabah and Kalimantan, Indonesia.

He also suggested that if the parade is held in Kuching, its route should follow the natural flow of the river, in line with Iban cultural philosophy.

“The river is not merely a physical feature; it represents the flow of life, sustenance and cosmic order. Our forefathers lived by the rhythm of the river, and direction carried meaning beyond geography,” he said.

Citing the expression ‘mali nanjak ai’, he added that it serves as a reminder for human actions to remain in harmony with nature.

Peter John further proposed concluding the parade with a Gawai Food Fair in Padungan, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the indigenous culinary heritage of Sarawak in a festive, family-friendly setting.

On a related matter, he congratulated the newly appointed state-level 2026 Gawai Dayak Celebration organising committee, saying it is entrusted with safeguarding and strengthening the true spirit of Gawai Dayak as a celebration of gratitude, identity, unity and cultural pride.

“To the new committee members, may your leadership be guided by wisdom, integrity, inclusiveness and teamwork. May Gawai Dayak 2026 truly embody the spirit of ‘Segulai Sejalai’ — walking together in unity,” he said.

It was reported the state-level 2026 Gawai Dayak Celebration organising committee was established on Tuesday to coordinate early preparations for the event, which is scheduled to begin in May.

State Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Dr Penguang Manggil has been appointed chairman, assisted by Deputy State Secretary (Administration) Datuk Felicia Tan Ya Hua as deputy chairman.

This year’s celebrations will be hosted by the Iban community.