Ahmad Hasbullah (seated on the chair, second right) watch as Muhammad Daniel (seated on the floor, left) and Stephen (seated on the floor, third left) prepare to perform the ‘miring’.
SIBU: The Third Royal Rangers Regiment (3RRD) camp in Mile 14 Oya Road here was filled with excitement when the Ninth Infantry Brigade held its Gawai Dayak closing ceremony recently.
About 300 people including 3RRD and Rascom camps community attended the function graced by the deputy Royal Malaysian Army chief Lieutenant General Dato Sri Panglima Ahmad Hasbullah Ahmad Nawawi.
Ninth Infantry Brigade commander Brigadier General Datuk Muhammad Daniel Abdullah, Third Infantry Brigade commander Brigadier General Datuk Mohd Nazir Mami and former Ninth Infantry Brigade commander who is now attached with Ministry of Defence Datuk Stephen Mundaw were among those present.
Also present were Nangka assemblyman Dr Annuar Rapaee and Sibu Resident Sim Kok Kee.
In his welcoming speech, Muhammad Daniel said the 1Malaysia spirit had been long practised by the army.
“The army acknowledges and celebrates every major festival in the country. Such celebrations also bring the army closer to the people,” he said.
Meanwhile, the arrival of the guest of honour was accorded a traditional welcome, namely the ‘ngajat ngalu pengabang’ (dance to welcome the guests) and ‘miring’ (offering) ritual.
The guests were also entertained by Melanau and Orang Ulu dances as well as live performance by Red Hackle band.
The guests later rolled a ‘bidai’ (rotan mat) to mark the closing of the festival after they bring down the decorated ‘ranyai’ tree.