Rekindle the enthusiasm to master the ngajat

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MIRI: The younger Ibans should rekindle the enthusiasm of the olden days like mastering the ‘ngajat’ from an early age.

They can take the first step to perform the dance and keep the unique culture burning, and at the same time to preserve the art of their forefathers.

The advice came from Jacqueline Selaka Mawar, who is the organising chairperson of a Ngajat class and a member of Dayak Association Miri (DAM), the organiser.

“Ngajat is our traditional dance and it has always been featured in almost all Iban festivals or ceremonial gatherings.

“Just as the Chinese during Chinese New Year they don’t forget the Lion Dance. Gawai Dayak is not complete without the ngajat ,” she said when met yesterday.

She said DAM would continue to hold ngajat classes to preserve the art and encourage the younger generation to master the skill.

The next session will be on Dec 3, at the Francis Loke Lobby of DAM building at Jalan Merpati here.

According to Jacqueline, the learning duration would be two months.

Entry forms are obtainable at DAMs office or can be download at http://dam.org.my/ngajat-class-2014

Participation fee is RM50 per person for adults and RM30 for children (five to 12 years old).

Completed entry forms attached with the fee should reach DAM office before 4.30pm on Nov 29.

For more information call Cr Rebecca Nanta (014-5772552), Jacqueline (016-8786205) or DAM office (085-435467).