Latest news with #GawaiDayakBazaar2025
Borneo Post
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
Swinburne Sarawak's Gawai Dayak Bazaar upholds unity amidst diversity
Dancers perform a cultural number for the opening ceremony of the Gawai Dayak Bazaar at Swinburne Sarawak in Kuching. KUCHING (June 11): The Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025, which took place at Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus here recently, brought together diverse communities in a colourful and lively celebration of culture. The three-day event, organised by Swinburne Sarawak Sekretariat Rukun Negara (SSSRN) in collaboration with the Department of National Unity and Integration (JPNIN) Sarawak and the Sarawak Arts Council, meant to foster unity and strengthen the ties amongst the younger generation and local communities through arts and culture. The bazaar featured a wide range of engaging activities, from artistic and cultural demonstrations to folk dances, as well as exhibitions and stalls selling traditional Dayak crafts and clothing. A selection of diverse food offerings added to the festivities, allowing visitors to enjoy a taste of local cuisine. Among the highlights were demonstrations of traditional craft-making by the Orang Ulu and Iban communities, performances of traditional musical instruments such as 'Tabuh Iban', and showcases of traditional clothing-making techniques. See (third left) and Giri, on his left, join other guests in a photo-call on stage. The traditional dance performances, including the 'ngajat' of the Iban, not only entertained attendees, but also encouraged their participation through interactive sessions alongside the performers. Visitors had the opportunity to explore exhibitions and stalls showcasing authentic Dayak cultural products such as beadworks, traditional clothing, and delicacies such as 'manok pansuh' (chicken cooked in bamboo). Around 70 small-and-medium-sized traders participated in the bazaar, offering an array of products including clothing, cosmetics, food, and beverages. The event also involved non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and associations such as the Ngajat Asal Iban Association (NGASI), Sarawak Dayak Iban Association (Asadia), Dayak Bidayuh National Association (DBNA), and the Sarawak Kayan Association. Visitors try their hands at playing traditional musical instruments at the bazaar. The participation of the Sekretariat Rukun Negara of higher education institutions in Kuching and Samarahan further enhanced the programme's synergy and collaborative spirit. Batu Lintang assemblyman See Chee How and JPNIN Sarawak deputy director Giri Nyareng were present at the opening ceremony. Meanwhile, in his speech for the closing ceremony, SSSRN president and programme director Dexter Hu Siang Ching expressed gratitude for the successful organisation of the event, noting that it served not only to showcase the beauty of Sarawak's culture but also created a space for unity and goodwill among students, campus communities, and the wider public present. 'As a student and SSSRN president, I'm truly pleased to see the event run successfully. 'I was deeply moved by the overwhelming response from the participants and the strong support from visitors. 'We are already planning an even bigger event in the future,' he said. Photo shows one of the stalls selling accessories made of Dayak beads. Meanwhile, SSSRN advisor Dr Serit Banyan said such a programme greatly benefitted students by equipping them with event management experience, while providing opportunities to develop essential skills such as time management and leadership. 'The Gawai Dayak Bazaar truly reflects the spirit of unity among Sarawakians. I hope that we could continue hosting such events in the future,' he added.
Borneo Post
26-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawakians urged to adopt circular economy in cultural, community events
Dr Rundi (second left) dons a traditional Orang Ulu headgear upon his arrival at the closing ceremony of the Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025 at MJC Batu Kawa, Kuching. – Photo by Roystein Emmor KUCHING (May 26): Sarawakians are urged to adopt a circular economy approach when organising cultural and community events. In making the call, Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom said while showcasing cultural heritage, Sarawakians should embrace a mindset of resourcefulness and waste reduction. 'When Gawai Dayak is around the corner, we look forward to the Gawai Dayak Bazaar, just as we do with the Ramadan Bazaars when Hari Raya Aidilfitri approaches. 'Rather than simply waiting for these events, we should see them as a significant game changers that encourage us to change our mindset and reduce waste in everything we do,' he said in his speech during the Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025 closing ceremony at MJC Batu Kawa here last night. Dr Rundi encouraged Sarawakians to find value in their efforts by monetising their talents, produce, and even waste, citing Sarawak Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (Salcra) as an example where biomass is converted into valuable products such as animal feed, fertiliser, and renewable energy. 'All these were once waste materials, discarded products with no value. Now, they are being converted into dollars and cents,' he said. He also highlighted the importance of understanding the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 as a roadmap for Sarawak's recovery and future growth. By recognising its five key pillars, Sarawakians can contribute effectively to the state's sustainable development goals. 'We must each play our part and uphold environmental, social, and governance standards to ensure Sarawak is recognised for its commitment to green energy,' he said. Meanwhile, Dr Rundi announced that the Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025 at MJC Batu Kawa had recorded sales exceeding RM1 million over its 10-day duration. Also present were Deputy Minister in the Premier's Department Datuk Gerawat Gala; Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development Deputy Minister Datuk Martin Ben; Utility and Telecommunication Deputy Minister Datuk Liwan Lagang; Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Deputy Minister Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu; Telang Usan assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau; Batu Danau assemblyman Datuk Paulus Palu Gumbang, who is also the Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025 committee chairman; along with other distinguished guests. circular economy Dr Stephen Rundi Utom events Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025 lead
Borneo Post
26-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawakians urged to embrace circular economy
Dr Rundi (second left) dons a traditional Orang Ulu headgear upon his arrival at the closing ceremony of the Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025 at MJC Batu Kawa, Kuching. – Photo by Roystein Emmor KUCHING (May 26): Sarawakians are urged to adopt a circular economy approach when organising cultural and community events. In making the call, Food Industry, Commodity and Regional Development Minister Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom emphasised the importance of resourcefulness and waste reduction while showcasing cultural heritage during these events. 'When Gawai Dayak is around the corner, we look forward to the Gawai Dayak Bazaar, just as we do with the Ramadan Bazaars when Hari Raya Aidilfitri approaches. 'Rather than simply waiting for these events, we should see them as a significant game changers that encourage us to change our mindset and reduce waste in everything we do,' he said in his speech during the Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025 closing ceremony at MJC Batu Kawa here last night. Dr Rundi encouraged Sarawakians to find value in their efforts by monetising their talents, produce, and even waste, citing Sarawak Land Consolidation and Rehabilitation Authority (Salcra) as an example where biomass is converted into valuable products such as animal feed, fertiliser, and renewable energy. 'All these were once waste materials, discarded products with no value. Now, they are being converted into dollars and cents,' he said. He also highlighted the importance of understanding the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 as a roadmap for Sarawak's recovery and future growth. By recognising its five key pillars, Sarawakians can contribute effectively to the state's sustainable development goals. 'We must each play our part and uphold environmental, social, and governance standards to ensure Sarawak is recognised for its commitment to green energy,' he said. Meanwhile, Dr Rundi announced that the Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025 at MJC Batu Kawa had recorded sales exceeding RM1 million over its 10-day duration. Also present were Deputy Minister in the Premier's Department Datuk Gerawat Gala; Food Industry, Commodity, and Regional Development Deputy Minister Datuk Martin Ben; Utility and Telecommunication Deputy Minister Datuk Liwan Lagang; Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Deputy Minister Datuk Gerald Rentap Jabu; Telang Usan assemblyman Dato Dennis Ngau; Batu Danau assemblyman Datuk Paulus Palu Gumbang, who is also the Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025 committee chairman; along with other distinguished guests. circular economy Dr Stephen Rundi Utom events Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025 lead
Borneo Post
14-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025 returns with 180 stalls, cultural festivities
Gerawat (seated, centre) in a photo-call with members of the Gawai Bazaar organising committee after the meeting. – Ukas photo KUCHING (May 14): The Gawai Dayak Bazaar 2025, set to take place for 11 days tomorrow (May 15) till May 25, will feature 180 stalls and a range of cultural activities at the MJC Batu Kawah New Township, said Datuk Gerawat Gala. Gerawat, who chairs the main committee for the state-level Gawai Dayak celebration, said the stalls would include those selling to handicrafts, as well as food, beverages, and dry goods operated by the local community. He also announced that the opening ceremony will be officiated by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, with the date to be finalized soon. 'This bazaar not only adds vibrancy to the Gawai Dayak celebration but also serves as a platform to promote local crafts, foster unity, and showcase the rich cultural diversity of the Dayak community,' he was quotes as saying by the Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas) after chairing the Gawai Bazaar organising committee meeting, here yesterday. He added that a variety of cultural and entertainment programmes are also scheduled throughout the bazaar, including the Gawai Idol competition, Ratu Gawai pageant, and the Battle of the Band event. 'These activities are expected to attract participation from youth and members of the public from all walks of life,' he said. 'This bazaar is open to all races. We welcome everyone to join in the festivities while supporting local entrepreneurs,' added Gerawat, who is also Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Labour, Immigration and Project Monitoring). He expressed hope that broader community participation would further highlight the uniqueness of the Gawai celebration as a pillar of unity and cultural heritage in Sarawak. This year, the Orang Ulu community has been given the honour of hosting the celebration, providing an opportunity to showcase their rich customs and traditions to Sarawakians and visitors alike. Gerawat also revealed that the 2025 Sarawak-Level Gawai Dayak celebration will include several main events, such as the Gawai Tradition Carnival on June 12 and 13 at the Federation of Orang Ulu Associations of Sarawak, Malaysia (FORUM) building in Miri. A Gawai Dayak Parade will be held on June 21 at the Kuching Waterfront which will be officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. The highlight of the celebrations, the Gawai Dayak Gala Dinner, will be held on June 22 at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) and is expected to be graced by Yang Di-Pertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar. A coffee table book themed around Dayak culture and heritage will also be launched in conjunction with the celebration. community cultural food festival Gawai Dayak Bazaar gerawat gala lead
