01-07-2025
Premier: Ngiling Bidai brings Sarawak's multiracial communities closer
Rodiyah (fifth left), Mohd Naroden (fourth left), Awla (sixth left) and others roll up the mat to mark the closing of the Gawai Dayak celebration.
KUCHING (July 1): 'Ngiling Bidai', a ceremony to mark the closing of the Gawai Dayak celebration, serves as an important platform to strengthen the unity of Sarawak's multiracial communities, said Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
The Premier pointed out that at the same time, the ceremony—steeped in tradition—also enhances efforts to preserve the Dayak culture and ethnic heritage in Sarawak.
'This ceremony is not just a closing ceremony for Gawai Dayak as it is also a symbol of appreciation for the harvest, a spirit of kinship, and the strength of unity among the multi-racial communities in Sarawak,' he said in a Sarawak Public Communications Unit report.
The text of Abang Johari's speech was delivered by Batang Sadong MP Rodiyah Sapiee at the closing ceremony of the Gedong District Gawai Dayak celebration 2025, held here on Sunday.
In his speech, the Premier said the involvement of 55 villages under Gedong District in the celebration showed the community's high level of cooperation and commitment in making the event a success.
He also called on all parties to continue fostering the spirit of tolerance, mutual respect and cooperation for the development of a prosperous and peaceful state.
During the ceremony, guests also participated in prayers to pay respect for Abang Johari's wife, the late Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma'ani Tun Tuanku Bujang, who passed away on June 23.
Among those present were event organising chairman Dato Sri Mohd Naroden Majais, Simunjan assemblyman Awla Dris, and Samarahan Resident Mohd Irwan Bahari Bujang. Abang Johari Tun Openg community Gawai Dayak multiracial Ngiling Bidai
