File photo of Gawai celebration at Rumah Ensengei Iban Baru in Simunjan in 2024. – Bernama photo
KUCHING (May 29): With Hari Gawai Dayak just around the corner, the rhythmic sounds of gongs, drumbeats and festive cheers have begun echoing through longhouses and communities across Sarawak as preparations intensify ahead of the annual celebration on June 1.
Residents are busy preparing traditional delicacies, buying festive attire and household necessities, while making arrangements to reunite with family members and relatives for the celebration.
Junior design engineer Elvina Mujan Semuil said she looked forward to a vibrant and lively Gawai celebration in her village, especially with the return of extended family members during the festive season.
She shared that her family would usually host an open house throughout the celebration to welcome relatives and guests.
Elvina Mujan Semuil
According to Elvina, their home would be decorated with traditional ornaments and filled with festive favourites such as ‘pansuh’ (bamboo-cooked chicken) and freshly brewed ‘tuak’ (rice wine).
“My family usually entertains guests throughout the day with traditional food and warm hospitality. We also spend time attending family reunions and visiting relatives,” she said.
Elvina added that one of the highlights of the celebration was the midnight toast with ‘ai pengayu’, which symbolises blessings and prosperity.
“While modern elements have gradually become part of the festivities, the essence of Gawai remains unchanged,” she told The Borneo Post.
She noted that younger generations are now incorporating karaoke sessions and social media trends to enliven the festivities while continuing to preserve cultural traditions.
“Gawai is ultimately about happiness, harmony and fellowship,” she added.
Meanwhile, educator Riechel Nawi Kiri shared a more sombre sentiment, saying this year’s Gawai felt different as her family was still mourning the loss of two loved ones.
“We usually celebrate in a joyful atmosphere with large family gatherings as everyone returns to the longhouse for Gawai.
“The house would normally be filled with laughter, conversations and cheerful moments throughout the night,” she said.
“However, this year feels more emotional and heartbreaking as we are still grieving.”
Riechel Nawi Kiri
Despite the sadness, Riechel said the occasion continued to remind her of the importance of cherishing loved ones and spending quality time together.
“For me, Gawai Dayak is about togetherness — being able to gather as a family, share the festive spirit and simply be present with one another. That alone is already meaningful,” she added.
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas) engineering student Maxwell Alias described Gawai as one of the most anticipated celebrations of the year, as it allowed him to spend more time in his hometown and participate in ‘ngabang’ (house visiting).
“With the extended holiday period, I have more time to enjoy the festive atmosphere and visit relatives without rushing back early,” he said.
Maxwell Alias
Maxwell also described the journey back to his hometown as part of the festive experience itself.
“I always look forward to the scenic journey home. It brings a sense of peace and nostalgia as Gawai approaches,” he said.
Rich in cultural heritage and tradition, the annual Gawai Dayak celebration continues to unite communities while fostering a strong sense of belonging, gratitude and appreciation for family ties and customs passed down through generations.