Recognise Gawai Dayak Day as public holiday

BINTULU: Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong has urged the Unity Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to recognise the Gawai Dayak celebration as a public holiday in Malaysia.

“This will provide the Dayak community in Peninsular Malaysia with an opportunity to return to their respective hometowns to celebrate a day that is meaningful to it.

“It is not just a matter of holiday but also a recognition of the Dayak community in Sarawak and its traditions and wealth of custom, art and culture.

“Therefore, I call on the Unity Government today to recognise Gawai Dayak Day as a public holiday in the Federal government’s calendar,” he said.

Ugak said this while speaking at the Ngiling Tikai Gawai Dayak 2024 ceremony at Rumah Lichong Along, Sungai Sebutin, Tubau recently.

On the function, the Hulu Rajang MP said it showcased the cultural diversity which was the strength of the multi-racial society in Sarawak.

“The concept of “Segulai Sejalai” is not just rhetoric but has become part of our way of life.

“In fact, what is more important is the uniqueness of the culture that has been the backbone of the strength of unity, prosperity and progress of Sarawak all this time,” he added.

PRS president Datuk Joseph Salang Gandum, Deputy Minister of Utilities and Telecommunications (Telecommunications) and Belaga Assemblyman, Datuk Liwan Lagang, Sarawak Deputy Minister of International Trade and Investment and Batang Ai assemblyman, Datuk Malcom Mussen Lamoh, Murum assemblyman Kennedy Chukpai Ugon and Bintulu Resident Nyurak Keti were among those present at the function.