The Sibu Division recently hosted the ‚Malam Mantar Gawai Dayak‘ event, a festive celebration that brought together people from various backgrounds and communities. Dato Sri Alexander Nanta Linggi, the Public Works Minister, emphasized the importance of festive celebrations as unifying elements that transcend differences in religion, background, or political beliefs. He highlighted how politicians, despite their differing ideologies, come together during festivals to celebrate and foster unity among Sarawakians.
During his speech at the event held at Kingwood Hotel, Nanta stressed the significance of preserving unity among Sarawakians, especially during festive occasions like Gawai Dayak. He noted that the gathering included individuals from diverse ethnic groups, coming together to celebrate Gawai Dayak regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds. This spirit of unity and inclusivity is not limited to Gawai Dayak but extends to other festive celebrations such as Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, and Deepavali, reflecting the cultural diversity and harmony in Sarawak.
One of the highlights of the evening was the ‚Kumang Gawai Dayak Sibu 2024‘ pageant, where participants showcased their beauty, traditional Iban clothing known as ‚Ngepan‘, talents, and self-confidence. Nanta emphasized that the pageant was not just about judging beauty but also about promoting and preserving traditional heritage. The ‚Ngepan‘ attire represents a significant aspect of Iban culture, and the pageant served as a platform to raise awareness about this cultural heritage and introduce it to a wider audience.
The event was attended by prominent figures such as Deputy Dewan Rakyat Speaker Alice Lau, Bawang Assan assemblyman Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh, and other local representatives. Also present were members of Sarawak Dayak National Union (SDNU) Sibu and Sarakup Indu Dayak Sarawak (SIDS) Sibu, along with respected community leaders and councillors. The diverse representation at the event exemplified the spirit of unity and collaboration that is essential for fostering a sense of belonging and cultural pride among Sarawakians.
In conclusion, the ‚Malam Mantar Gawai Dayak‘ event in Sibu exemplified the power of festive celebrations to bring people together, regardless of their differences. The event showcased the rich cultural heritage of Sarawak, promoted unity among diverse communities, and highlighted the importance of preserving traditional customs and values. As Sarawakians continue to celebrate various festivals and cultural events, they reinforce the bonds that unite them and strengthen the fabric of their society.